§ 46. Sir W. Smithersasked the Prime Minister if, in view of his appeal made on 4th February, 1948, for the restriction of dividends, profits and wages, the Government will set an example to the country by reducing the salaries of Ministers and the salaries of highly-paid officials appointed by the Government in nationalised industries and other posts.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir.
§ Sir W. SmithersIn view of the fact that, since the Prime Minister made his appeal on 4th February, 1948, for a reduction of profits, dividends and wages, wages have increased by nearly £100 million a year, does he realise that the real masters of this country are the T.U.C.?
§ Mr. ChamberlainWould it not be better if the hon. Member persuaded his friends of the Federation of British Industries to observe the spirit as well as the letter of this arrangement?
§ Sir W. SmithersHas not the Chancellor of the Exchequer acknowledged on more than one occasion the co-operation—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder.