HC Deb 10 February 1930 vol 235 cc27-8
47. Major NATHAN

asked the Prime Minister whether ho is able to state whether any persons have been chosen by him for membership of the Economic Advisory Council in virtue of their special knowledge and experience in industry and economics; and whether he is able to state the names of the secretary and assistant secretaries?

The PRIME MINISTER

If the hon. and gallant Member will be good enough to postpone his question till next Wednesday I hope to be in a position to give him a reply.

48. Major NATHAN

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the fact that the Government are without the information, he will direct the Economic Advisory Council to conduct an inquiry for the most convenient year into the total capital wealth of Great Britain; the total amount of wealth invested in industry in Great Britain; the total national income; and the total income derived from industry in Great Britain?

The PRIME MINISTER

The hon. and gallant Member may rest assured that the Advisory Council will immediately be set to work to investigate and report upon what the Government considers the most urgent questions, and I am always glad to be assisted by suggestions which shall be duly considered in relation to their urgency and importance.

Mr. HANNON

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider referring to the Economic Advisory Council the importance of considering at once the relationship of a change in the fiscal policy of this country to the present condition of British industry?

Earl WINTERTON

Are we not entitled to ask the right hon. Gentleman for a definition of these causes Would the fiscal conditions be included?

The PRIME MINISTER

I shall consider all suggestions.

Captain CROOKSHANK

How can we make suggestions when the right hon. Gentleman will not give us a day for discussing the setting up of this council?