HC Deb 21 June 1950 vol 476 cc1289-90
48. Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

asked the Lord President of the Council whether arrangements will now be made to publish the amounts paid, and the names of those to whom payment has been made, by nationalised undertakings for loss of office and emoluments.

The Lord President of the Council (Mr. Herbert Morrison)

The settlement of individual cases of compensation for loss of office and emoluments is a matter of the day-to-day administration of the boards of the socialised industries, and I regret that I am unable to comply with my hon. and gallant Friend's request that I should arrange for the publication of the details.

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

If this information is not to be made available, how is it to be possible to substantiate or disprove statements that certain hon. Members of this House have received very substantial payments by way of compensation? Would not it be in the public interest that at least this category of payment should not be kept secret?

Mr. Morrison

I see the point of view of my hon. and gallant Friend, and I am sorry that I cannot help him. It really is important to maintain the principle that the boards should deal with matters for which they are responsible on a day-to-day basis. It would be possible for my hon. and gallant Friend to write to one of the boards, but I cannot say what the answer would be; however, hon. Members opposite may perhaps be relieved at the answer.

Mr. Assheton

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that certain road hauliers have been deprived of their jobs without any compensation whatever?

Lieut.-Colonel Lipton

In view of the important principle involved in this matter, may I give notice of my intention to raise this matter on the Adjournment as soon as possible?