Q2. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Prime Minister whether he will recommend the establishment of a Royal Commission to investigate the structure and organisation of the steel industry before proceeding with plans to bring the industry into public ownership.
§ The Prime MinisterNo, Sir.
Mr. TaylorIs the Prime Minister's mind quite closed on the issue of steel nationalisation? Has he had an assurance from the Chancellor of the Exchequer that we can afford the many millions of £s required to carry out this pointless and expensive exercise, which will not help the industry or the country, and which people do not want?
§ The Prime MinisterThis was a matter on which Parliament expressed itself a year ago this week. It was also a matter which was before the electorate a month ago and which seems to have received so much acceptance in all parts of the House that the Opposition did not bother to make anything of it in the debate on the Address last week.
§ Mr. HeathIn view of the undertaking by the First Secretary, which the Prime Minister has mentioned, that he would listen to whatever was said, would the Prime Minister, if he is unwilling to set up a Royal Commission, listen to the conclusions of the Committee under Sir Henry Benson which is now sitting? Will he take these into account before the Government introduce any legisla- 1420 tion? It would be preferable if he did not introduce any legislation at all.
§ The Prime MinisterMy right hon. Friend said that we were willing to listen. That was a year ago. It is impossible to listen to those who do not emit any noises. It is a very significant and interesting fact that activity on this scale has only started after the General Election.