§ Q7. Sir Knox Cunninghamasked the Prime Minister when the steel nationalisation Bill will now be introduced.
§ Mr. George BrownI have been asked to reply.
Not this Session, Sir.
§ Sir Knox CunninghamDoes not the right hon. Gentleman recall the pledge given by the Prime Minister to the House on 18th March that a Steel Bill would be introduced this Session? Is this to be treated as another one of Labour's broken promises?
§ Mr. BrownThe hon. and learned Member would be surprised how many statements made in the House on this subject I recall.
§ Mr. HeathCan the right hon. Gentleman confirm the Prime Minister's undertaking on television on 20th July that the Steel Bill would be in the programme for next Session? [HON. MEMBERS: "Wait."] I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will not be more modest than the Prime Minister in giving his answer to this. The Prime Minister was prepared to give an undertaking about the Queen's Speech. I hope that the right hon. Gentleman will confirm it.
§ Mr. BrownI shall certainly observe the proprieties. I cannot possibly anticipate the Gracious Speech.