§ 44. Sir W. Smithersasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what steps he is taking to implement the declared policy of curbing inflation, especially with regard to Government expenditure, and the continued demand for increased wages and salaries; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterMy right hon. Friend hopes to make a statement on these and other matters very soon after Easter.
§ Sir W. SmithersIs my hon. Friend not aware that the progressive decline in the purchasing power of the £, as reported last Friday, is due to the fact that six years of Socialist Government ruined our credit, and that unless he acts quickly and courageously wages and so-called benefits will be paid in pieces of paper which cannot be eaten or worn and the purchasing power of which is declining?
§ Mr. Boyd-CarpenterI have to answer Questions on a good many matters in this House, but I do not think that six years of Socialist Government is one of them.