HC Deb 02 November 1954 vol 532 cc207-8
44. Mr. E. Johnson

asked the President of the Board of Trade who are the present members of the Monopolies Commission; and what experience each of them has had in the management of productive industry.

Mr. H. Strauss

Since the answer contains a list, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT. The members of the Commission cover a wide range of interests and experience, and my right hon. Friend does not think that it would serve a useful purpose to specify the precise experience of each.

Mr. Johnson

May I ask my hon. and learned Friend if he would not agree that a greater amount of practical experience of productive industry amongst the members of the Monopolies Commission would result in their proceedings being much less protracted, much less costly and much more effective?

Mr. Strauss

I do not think that those implied criticisms of the Commission are justified.

Mr. H. Wilson

Will the hon. and learned Gentleman communicate to his hon. Friend the difficulties that both the previous and present Government have had in finding industrialists of practical experience who are not connected with some cartel or organisation?

Mr. Strauss

No, I do not think that is fair either.

Following is the list: