§ 42. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Prime Minister whether the speech delivered by the Chancellor of the Exchequer on the financial situation at the Associated Chambers of Commerce on 22nd June represents the policy of Her Majesty's Government.
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir.
§ Mr. HughesWill the Prime Minister explain how the Chancellor of the Exchequer, after giving over £70 million to Surtax payers, can now come along to the workers and ask for wage restraint? Is not that a rather strange policy?
§ The Prime MinisterMy right hon. and learned Friend is not giving anything to Surtax payers until January, 1963.
§ Mr. GaitskellDoes the right hon. Gentleman realise that if the Chancellor of the Exchequer is to have any hope whatever of his appeal for wage restraint succeeding he will have to alter his taxation policy? Is the right hon. Gentleman further aware that there is still time for the Chancellor of the Exchequer to do that, as we have completed only the Committee stage of the Finance Bill? Will the Prime Minister advise his right hon. and learned Friend to consider this matter very carefully before Report?
§ The Prime MinisterI was asked whether I agreed with the speech made by my right hon. and learned Friend. I replied that I do.