14. Air Commodore Harveyasked the President of the Board of Trade how many companies have informed him of their intention not to increase prices of their products during the next six months.
Air Commodore HarveyWill my hon. and learned Friend ask the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a plea on the radio and television to private industry and the nationalised industries to stabilise prices, at least for a period of six months, and do something about it?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithMy hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate that this matter was dealt with by the Prime Minister in his speech at Bradford. [Interruption.] I am answering the Question of my hon. and gallant Friend, which relates to the number of companies which have given this information to the President of the Board of Trade. Other companies have taken this action, but of course they are under no obligation to inform the Board of Trade.
§ Mr. BottomleyIf the Government carry out their promises, ought we not to anticipate a reduction in prices?
§ Mr. Walker-SmithStabilisation is a very good first step.