53. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking to ensure that silver or cupronickel coins are available to the banks, since many firms and businesses throughout the country are short of silver for their pay packets every week and have to make their payments to the nearest amount in notes; and whether there is any indication that these coins are being drawn out and stored.
§ Sir S. CrippsNot all the reports of shortage are equally reliable, but appropriate action is being taken with a view to meeting demands, which always increase at this time of year.