HC Deb 12 June 1934 vol 290 cc1533-4
39. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Prime Minister whether the Chief Economic Adviser to His Majesty's Government attends the meetings of the Economic Advisory Council; and, if not, what arrangements exist to ensure cooperation between them?

The LORD PRESIDENT of the COUNCIL (Mr. Baldwin)

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative; the second part does not, therefore, arise.

40. Mr. SOMERVILLE

asked the Prime Minister how many meetings of the Economic Advisory Council were held during the current year, up-to-date, and 1933, respectively; what was the total cost of its activities during 1933; and whether he is still satisfied that its maintenance is a necessity?

Mr. BALDWIN

The work of the Economic Advisory Council and of its committees is confidential. The cost of the Council, including salaries, wages and miscellaneous items, amounted in the year 1933–34 to the sum of £5,520. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative.

Mr. MAXTON

Is this Committee so confidential that we cannot be told whether it has met, and how often? Surely that is carrying confidence to an extreme?

Mr. BALDWIN

The confidential nature of its proceedings was specified in the Treasury Minute which was laid before the House four years ago, when the Committee was set up; and the term "confidential" in regard to its work does include a certain amount of privacy in regard to its meetings.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

What good has emanated from this Advisory Economic Council? What have we got for our £5,000?

Mr. MAXTON

Might I ask the Lord President whether, if it has not met at all, there is any reason for making a great secret of it? Is it necessary in the public interest to keep that quiet?

Mr. BALDWIN

I think the body meets frequently, but this answer has been given repeatedly by the Head of the Government, and I am giving it for about the fourth or fifth time now.

Mr. KIRKWOOD

Have they produced anything? Have they suggested anything to the Government?

Mr. MACQUISTEN

They can always telephone each other.