§ 54. Mr. Shinwellasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he can give an estimate of the increase in wealth production, if the whole of the able-bodied unemployed were absorbed in industry, and what would be the total annual saving o the Exchequer; and whether the Stamp Committee and the committee over which the right hon. Gentleman presides have given this matter any consideration?
§ Sir J. SimonThe full employment of the whole resources of the country in the war effort will increase the national income and the taxable capacity of the nation, but there are too many uncertain factors in the situation, particularly Changes in the price level, to enable any precise estimate to be formed. As regards the last part of the Question, the fuller utilisation of the nation's labour power 974 is an integral part of the war economic problem and naturally receives continuous consideration.
§ Mr. ShinwellHow far have the committee proceeded in their investigation of this problem; and when will the Government be ready to accept the advice of the committee?
§ Sir J. SimonI said in answer to a previous Question that it would be wholly contrary to constitutional usage, as I am sure the hon. Gentleman realises, to try to throw the responsibility on to officials when the responsibility rests with the Government.
§ Mr. ShinwellDoes not the right hon. Gentleman appreciate that I have no desire to throw responsibility on anybody? I wanted to know whether the Government accept full responsibility and whether the Government are going to show some response to any of the recommendations made by the committee?