§ Mr. Selwyn Lloydasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many companies have reduced their dividends since 20th July, 1966; and what is the amount of the reduction to the total gross distribution of dividends as a result.
§ Mr. CallaghanAbout 350 companies have announced reduced dividends since 20th July, 1966. Figures giving the reduction in the total gross distribution of dividends are not available.
§ Mr. Selwyn Lloydasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer how many companies have increased their dividends since 20th July, 1966; what the increase is in the amount of the total gross distribution as a result; and how many of these increases are in breach of Government policy.
§ Mr. CallaghanAbout 150 companies have announced their intention to increase dividends since 20th July, 1966. 14 of these increased their dividends as a result of misunderstanding the precise effects of the standstill in their particular cases. Figures of the actual increases paid out, and the total gross distribution, are not available.