HC Deb 12 March 1942 vol 378 c1180
46. Mr. Stokes

asked the Prime Minister when the Government will introduce such regulations as may be necessary to prevent personal interests in property of any kind standing in the way of efficiency and swiftness of production?

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

The Government have already wide powers, but if the need were shown to exist for powers beyond those already possessed, the Government would have no hesitation in seeking them.

Mr. Stokes

I put this Question down to the Lord Privy Seal. May I ask the Deputy Prime Minister whether he has read the speech made by the Lord Privy Seal in the House on 25th February, in which he said that action was to be taken?

Mr. Attlee

Yes, Sir, I have read it.

Captain Cobb

Can we have an assurance that the national interest will always be given priority over the self-interests of capital and labour?

Mr. Attlee

Yes, Sir.