HC Deb 09 May 1957 vol 569 cc1170-1
33. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he will make a special appeal to industry this year for the stabilisation of prices as a contribution to overcoming inflation.

The Economic Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Nigel Birch)

The appeals already made by Her Majesty's Government for restraint in prices and wages still stand.

Mr. Hamilton

Is the Minister aware that unless these appeals have some material effect, and unless the Government encourage policies which will have some effect, it is no use asking any body of workers for a wage freeze until they have that kind of stabilisation?

Hon. Members

Answer

Mr. H. Wilson

Even if the right hon. Gentleman will not answer that, will he answer this question? Is it still the Government's policy that the request to the nationalised industries to freeze their prices for a period ending this spring should be continued for a further period and that private industry should also maintain such a price freeze as it introduced last year? Will the right hon. Gentleman tell us whether the Government's policy is still as stated in the Prime Minister's "plateau" speech at Newcastle last May?

Mr. Birch

As the right hon. Gentleman is aware, the nationalised industries are under a statutory obligation, taking one year with another, to pay their way. They must have regard to that, but the general policy of restraint, of course, continues.

Mr. Gaitskell

If that is the case, it was also the case last year. Could the right hon. Gentleman not give a further explanation of this point for the guidance of the nationalised industries?

Mr. Birch

The nationalised industries get their guidance from the Minister of Power.

Mr. Gaitskell

In that case, surely the House of Commons should be informed. Are we to understand that the Minister of Power has given a direction to the nationalised industries and that this has not been made public?

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Lindgren

As a contribution within their own power, will the Government consider withdrawing the Rent Bill and so avoid increases of rents and of wages?