§ 10. Mr. Lewisasked the Minister of Supply whether he will give an assurance that he will take such action as may be deemed necessary to ensure that there will be no price increase during the next six months in the goods and services coming within the control of his Department so as to assist in curbing the inflationary spiral.
§ Mr. MaudlingAs has been explained by the Prime Minister, it is the Government's view that the national interest requires that prices should be kept down wherever possible. I shall naturally bear this in mind along with other relevant considerations in deciding policy.
§ Mr. LewisWhile I thank the Minister for bearing it in mind, can I now have a definite assurance or answer, yes or no, as to whether he will do the same as the nationalised industries: namely, not put up the prices for the next six months?
§ Mr. MaudlingAs my main concern is not to sell but to buy things, I should hope to get prices down.