§ 13. Mr. Palmerasked the Paymaster-General what directions are given to guide members of public boards appointed by him, including the Iron and Steel Board, in the matter of participation in political controversy affecting 3 the future of the industry for which they are responsible.
§ Mr. MaudlingNone, Sir. Members of these boards are only asked to refrain from political activities in so far as such activities might be held to affect their fitness to carry out their duties under the law as it stands.
§ Mr. PalmerWould the right hon. Gentleman not agree that members of electricity boards and the National Coal Board have always shown great restraint in matters of political controversy despite tremendous provocation? Is it too much to ask that members of the Iron and Steel Board follow the precedent?
§ Mr. MaudlingI am not aware that they have been doing anything else.