HC Deb 09 February 1961 vol 634 cc602-4
15. Mr. M. Foot

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what general instructions he has given to ensure that the recent successful operations of Richard Thomas and Baldwins are suitably publicised.

Mr. Barber

This is a matter for the company and there is no reason why I should intervene. The company's recent report and accounts and the Chairman's statement have already been the subject of a good deal of comment in the Press. I understand that, as is usual for companies of this size, arrangements are being made to publish the chairman's statement, either in full or in an abridged form, in a number of leading newspapers and periodicals.

Mr. Foot

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that limitations are imposed by the Government themselves on the manner in which Richard Thomas and Baldwins can publicise their achievements? As this is the most successful steel firm in the country and in view of the large amounts being spent by private steel firms to advertise their achievements, does not the hon. Gentleman think that more efforts should be made by the Government to publicise the success of this company?

Mr. Barber

I do not think that this is a matter for the Government. It is a matter for the company. I understand the original intention was that the facts about the company—the statement made by the chairman, either in full or an abridged form—was to be published today. It is due to certain technical printing difficulties that the publication has been delayed.

Mr. Jay

As the Government through tax rebates are helping to subsidise the advertisements of some of the privately-owned steel companies, is there not some obligation on the Government to do the same thing for companies which they own?

Mr. Barber

No, I cannot agree with that.

Mr. C. Osborne

Can my hon. Friend confirm what has just been said, namely that restrictions are imposed by the Government on advertising by this company? If so, what are the restrictions? Is not it unreasonable and unfair that they should be imposed? Why are they imposed?

Mr. Barber

I will certainly look into that aspect, but no one has given me notice of any such restrictions. If the hon. Member for Ebbw Vale (Mr. M. Foot) will write to me, I will see if there are any. I know of none.

Mr. Jay

If the Treasury is the responsible Department as the one that owns these shares, surely the Minister responsible to the House should know whether there are such restrictions?

Mr. Barber

On the information i have at present, all I can say is that I know of no such restrictions. I assume that the hon. Member for Ebbw Vale must have something particular in mind, and I am willing to look into it.

Mr. Foot

If the hon. Gentleman will give me an undertaking that when I give him the information about the restrictions he will remove them, I shall be gratified.

Mr. Barber

I will consider any representations the hon. Gentleman wishes to make.