HC Deb 01 November 1949 vol 469 cc201-2
46. Mr. Henry Strauss

asked the Prime Minister whether the statement of the Minister of Health, in his speech at Rhymney on 16th October, 1949, that a further redistribution of wealth is to take place represents the policy of His Majesty's Government.

The Prime Minister

I have nothing to add to what was said on this subject by my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer, in his Budget speech last April.

Mr. Strauss

Is the Prime Minister aware that this policy was stated by the Minister of Health, and reported in the "Daily Herald" and elsewhere, and that the Minister gave as his reason that redistribution is also retribution? Does the Prime Minister agree with that, and does he wish it to be brought to the attention of those who are being invited to save?

The Prime Minister

It is not a statement of policy to which the hon. Gentleman is referring. If he will refer to the statement of policy that I have quoted to him, he will get the full statement.

Mr. Warbey

Does not the Prime Minister think that the case for a further distribution of capital wealth has received dramatic emphasis from the recent example of Sir John Black, managing director of Standard Motors, who recently received a tax-free gift of shares to the value of £100,000?