§ Mr. ButterfillTo ask the President of the Board of Trade what representations he has received regarding the trend for companies to offer dividends in the form of advanced scrip issues of shares rather than cash; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Neil HamiltonMy Department has received one representation about enhanced scrip dividends. Where companies make arrangements giving shareholders the alternative of cash or additional shares, the Department's main concern is that the offer is open on equal terms to all shareholders. It is for company shareholders to consider the merits of the offer and to vote accordingly when the relevant resolution is put to the general meeting.