§ 46. Lieut.-Commander Fletcherasked the Prime Minister what is the rule concerning the holding by Members of the Government of shares in undertakings the operations of which may be affected by Government policy?
§ The Prime MinisterThere is no such rule.
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherIs it not the case that if a Member of this House, who is a partner in a private firm which is contracting with the Government, votes on a matter affecting that contract, he is liable to a penalty; and, if that is so, what is the position of a member of the Government who is a director of a type of company which is controlling a public company which is contracting with the Government?
§ The Prime MinisterThat appears to be a complicated question, and perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will put it down.
§ Mr. GallacherIs the Prime Minister aware that if such a Member sat on a local authority he would be liable to prosecution?