Council on Prices, Productivity and Incomes

HC Deb 26 November 1959 vol 614 cc552-3

35. Mr. Rankin

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when he proposes to appoint a Chairman of the Council on Prices, Productivity and Incomes.

Mr. Barber

The Government have this matter under consideration but have no announcement to make at present.

Mr. Rankin

But if the Government attach any importance to the Council, why is the Chancellor waiting so long before appointing a chairman? Is it because the Government are taking no action and do not want to take any action on the last finding of the Council, namely, that prices are still too high?

Mr. Barber

That is another question. As I have said, the Government will make an announcement as soon as possible, and it would be as well to wait until that comes.