HC Deb 26 May 1952 vol 501 c943

Question again proposed, "That the Clause, as amended, stand part of the Bill."

3.34 p.m.

Mr. James Callaghan (Cardiff, South-East)

We were at the point, when we concluded our last sitting on the Bill, at which the Chancellor of the Exchequer had promised to look into the question of transfer of businesses from nationalised undertakings into private hands and how far this could be amalgamated into Clause 41. He said he would make a statement at a later date. I should be glad to hear from the Financial Secretary whether the Chancellor has been able to give this any consideration and at what stage he will be making a statement.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. John Boyd-Carpenter)

My right hon. Friend has not yet had time to consider the matter. He hopes to do so at a later stage.

Mr. Hugh Gaitskell (Leeds, South)

May we take it that on Clause 49, where, I imagine, there would be a further opportunity of discussing the position of nationalised boards, possibly on the Motion that the Clause stand part of the Bill, the Chancellor of the Exchequer may be able to make a statement on this matter?

Mr. Boyd-Carpenter

I do not know whether it will be by that stage, but, as the right hon. Gentleman says, the position of nationalised boards generally arises under that Clause.

Question put, and agreed to.

Clause, as amended, ordered to stand part of the Bill.