48. Mr. De la Bèreasked the Prune Minister what co-ordinating machinery exists between the Minister of Fuel and Power, the President of the Board of Trade and the Minister of Supply; and whether some explanatory statement will be made showing the Government's comprehensive plan to clarify the future position, and to get industry again into full operation.
§ The Prime MinisterIn order to deal with urgent inquiries about the application of the recent restrictions on the supply of electricity to industry a special committee, with representatives of all the Departments concerned, has been in daily session, and I myself preside over a committee of Ministers which keeps the general situation under review. As regards the second part of the Question, I would refer the hon. Member to the statement which I made to the House yesterday.
Mr. De la BèreIs the Prime Minister aware that it is never too late nor too early to speak the truth—[HON. MEMBERS: "Order."] There was nothing in that remark which was discourteous. Hon. Members have not understood what I am saying. I am asking whether the Prime Minister is not aware of that. Would it not be better for the Government to take the full blame for all that has happened, rather than put it all on the shoulders of one Minister?
§ The Prime MinisterThere is no suggestion on this side of the House that everything should be blamed on or put on the shoulders of one Minister. He is not responsible for the weather.