LIBOR (FSA Investigation) Debate

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Department: HM Treasury

LIBOR (FSA Investigation)

Robin Walker Excerpts
Monday 2nd July 2012

(12 years, 5 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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George Osborne Portrait Mr Osborne
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We are not proposing to put complex derivative products inside the retail ring fence; that is not part of our proposals. As I say, we are coming forward with plans to implement the Vickers reforms and I hope that the hon. Lady welcomes that.

Robin Walker Portrait Mr Robin Walker (Worcester) (Con)
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We have had regrets but no apology from Opposition Front Benchers. What our constituents really want is action. May I commend the Chancellor for taking action to set up a swift parliamentary inquiry? Will he make sure that the proceeds from any fines go to the taxpayer, not the banks?

George Osborne Portrait Mr Osborne
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I thank my hon. Friend. I say again that I came to the House just last Thursday and said that I would look to see what I could do on the fines. I have now come forward, a few days later, and said that we are going to take those fines—including the fines that Barclays will pay—and make sure that they are put to the public benefit, not to the benefit of the financial services industry. We are acting extremely swiftly on this. As I said, I would have thought that it was in everyone’s interests that we get on and deal with the matter in the coming months.