asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that the minima fixed for dealing in Government securities prevents the liquidation of overdrafts at a higher rate of interest and thereby hampers trade and industry; and will he consider taking steps to obviate this difficulty?

The fixing by the Stock Exchange of minimum prices for Government securities was done with the knowledge and approval of the Government as a temporary measure to prevent undue depreciation owing to the disorganisation of markets caused by the outbreak of war. The position is under constant consideration with a view to the restoration as soon as possible of normal facilities for the purchase and sale of Government securities.