§ 45. Mr. Osborneasked the Prime Minister if the speech by the Lord President of the Council on Sunday, 8th February, at Brixton to the effect that nationalisation is not an end in itself, but is the means of securing better public service, greater efficiency and economy, represents His Majesty's Government's policy; and if he will give an assurance that nationalisation will be abandoned where these aims are not achieved.
§ The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)The answer to the first part of the Question is in the affirmative. The second part of the Question asks—in the words of Erskine May, 14th edition, page 337—for the solution of a hypothetical proposition, and I do not feel called upon to reply.
§ Mr. OsborneSince events may compel the Prime Minister to reply to this Question, is he taking any steps to meet the emergency which will arise when nationalisation fails?
§ The Prime MinisterThat is also covered by Erskine May.