HC Deb 16 February 1959 vol 600 cc5-6
12. Mr. Palmer

asked the Paymaster-General what is the term of office of Mr. A. G. Stewart, a member of the Iron and Steel Board; and when that term of office expires.

Sir I. Horobin

Mr. Stewart was reappointed part-time member on 19th October, 1958, and his present term of office expires on 31st May, 1960.

Mr. Palmer

While not contesting the absolute right of Mr. Stewart as a private individual to express what opinions he likes on any subject, is it desirable that a member of the Iron and Steel Board should engage in any violent political controversy affecting the future of an industry for which the Board is responsible? Is it, not a fact also that it is the duty of the Board to serve the interests of all Governments, of all shades of political opinion, present and future?

Sir I. Horobin

That is rather what Mr. Stewart is doing. It is not his fault that violent controversy his arisen.

Mr. Strauss

Would not the Parliamentary Secretary and his colleagues take strong exception if a member of the Iron and Steel Board came out and demanded as an urgent necessity the renationalisation of the industry? Is it not an accepted principle by all Governments that members of Boards that control, fully or partially, any industry should refrain from taking a leading part in advocating changes in the status of any industry?

Sir I. Horobin

That is precisely what Mr. Stewart has been doing. It is hon. Members opposite who have been advocating the change. He is very satisfied with the work the Government put him there to do.

Mr. Strauss

Would the hon. Gentleman answer the main part of the question? What would be his comment if a member of the Iron and Steel Board came out and made a campaign in favour of the renationalisation of the Iron and Steel Industry? Would he say it was right?

Sir I. Horobin

Not if he were appointed to a board whose job it was to carry on an unnationalised industry.

Mr. Speaker

I think the Question is hypothetical.