HC Deb 21 November 1950 vol 481 cc27-8W
87. Mr. H. Hynd

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer in view of the increased dividends which have been paid, how far voluntary restraint has proved successful; and whether he proposes to adopt other methods of checking this inflationary tendency.

Mr. Gaitskell

The policy of restraint in the distribution of profits has been observed by the great majority of companies in this country, and I am very grateful for their co-operation. The continuance of this policy is essential at the present time. I have noticed recently some tendency to increase dividends, but it is too early yet to say whether the tendency will persist to an extent which will make it desirable to consider other methods of checking it.