§ 56. Mr. Parkerasked the Minister of Supply on whose authority a department of his Ministry was authorised to discuss matters relating to the whole of an industry with the trade association which, before the war, was only a price regulating organisation and which did not include all sections of the industry; and if this is a general principle of his Ministry.
§ Sir A. DuncanThe circumstances were explained in the answer given to a Question asked by the hon. Member yesterday.
§ Mr. ParkerDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think that there is a big difference between some kind of trade association created largely for restrictive purposes and covering only a section of trade, and some organisation that may be necessary in war-time for the proper running of an industry?
§ Sir A. DuncanI agree that this particular association was enlarged during the war. I accept the view of my hon. Friend that this is not a general principle which should be applied.