Mr. Rostron Duckworthasked the Minister of Production whether he is aware of the waste of paper involved in circulating company reports to all shareholders as well as publishing them in the Press; and whether he can take steps to arrange that such reports and like catalogues shall only be sent to those who ask for them?
§ Mr. LytteltonThe Companies Act requires that a copy of the directors' and auditors' reports should be sent to all shareholders in joint stock companies. My right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade has recently consulted 247W responsible business and professional organisations but has been advised against a relaxation of the requirement, which is considered to be an essential provision for the safeguarding of shareholders' interests. The Board of Trade have recently impressed on companies the urgent need for paper-saving especially in annual reports and prints of chairmen's speeches.