HL Deb 13 May 1936 vol 100 cc1005-6WA
LORD STRICKLAND

asked His Majesty's Government—

  1. (1) Whether instructions have been varied as to the approval of His Majesty's Government being previously obtained before Ordinances are proposed in Malta.
  2. (2) Whether His Majesty's Government are aware that the Draft of an Ordinance has been proposed allowing moneylenders to recover 10 per cent. interest on secured loans and 20 per cent. on such loans if for short periods.
  3. (3) Whether His Majesty's Government are aware that by a law of long 1006 standing the maximum rate so far allowed is 6 per cent.
  4. (4) Whether His Majesty's Government are aware that the leading pro-British and pro-Italian papers have condemned this Draft and that public opinion is strongly adverse thereto, and that its proposal is criticised as irreconcilable with the religious tenets of the people; and whether His Majesty's Government have taken any steps in the matter.

THE EARL OF PLYMOUTH

The answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative and to the second and third parts in the affirmative. His Majesty's Government have no information respecting the matters referred to in the fourth part of the Question: but the Governor will no doubt take into consideration any criticisms elicited by the publication of the Draft Ordinance.

House adjourned at twenty-five minutes before seven o'clock.