HC Deb 28 October 1965 vol 718 cc352-3
Q7. Sir Knox Cunningham

asked the Prime Minister when the steel nationalisation Bill will now be introduced.

Mr. George Brown

I have been asked to reply.

Not this Session, Sir.

Sir Knox Cunningham

Does 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. Brown

The hon. and learned Member would be surprised how many statements made in the House on this subject I recall.

Mr. Heath

Can 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. Brown

I shall certainly observe the proprieties. I cannot possibly anticipate the Gracious Speech.