HC Deb 21 November 1945 vol 416 cc438-9
73. Mr. Sidney Shephard

asked the President of the Board of Trade what further working parties he proposes to set up.

Mr. Ellis Smith

My right hon. and learned Friend is holding preliminary discussions with representatives of the wool and cutlery industries before the end of the year and hopes later to have similar discussions with representatives of other industries.

Mr. Shephard

Will the Parliamentary Secretary give a categorical assurance that it is not the intention to nationalise any of the industries covered by the working-parties, either in this Parliament or in any other Parliament?

Mr. Smith

Had the hon. Gentleman been following the discussions which took place prior to the working parties being set up, he would be satisfied with the manner in which my right hon. and learned Friend has dealt with the matter.

Lieut.-Colonel Dower

Is it not better to try to get increased production by cooperation than by waving the big stick?

Mr. Smith

The policy that has been adopted by this Government has secured the maximum co-operation— [HON. MEMBERS: "Oh."] —of all people who have the national interest at heart.

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