§ 38. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Lord Privy Seal whether he was consulted with regard to the formation of the proposed £6,000,000 company for the purpose of rationalising British industry?
Mr. THOMASMy hon. and gallant Friend will no doubt have seen in the Press the authoritative statement that the reports which have appeared on this matter are premature and in some respects incorrect. I hope at an early date to make a public statement on the matter.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYIs my right hon. Friend aware that there is a great deal of misapprehension on this matter, which would be relieved by a knowledge that he was being actively consulted?
Mr. THOMASI am not sure that there is apprehension, but I know that there is anxiety, and I indicated in my speech on Friday, and I say again now, that I am empowered to tell the House that I hope very soon to be able to make an authoritative statement. That is the best indication that I have not only been in touch but in agreement on the proposal.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWill my right hon. Friend be able to assure the House then that the rights of the men will be safeguarded?
Mr. THOMASI am afraid that, as I said in my answer to the question on the Paper, the statements in the Press were both premature and inaccurate. The object of this scheme, in a sentence, is to help industry.
§ Sir N. GRATTAN-DOYLEIs there any indication as to the nature of this £6,000,000 scheme, about which no one seems to know anything? Will the right hon. Gentleman say what it is and when it comes into operation, or whether it is a mare's nest?
§ Mr. SPEAKERThose questions go beyond the question on the Paper.