§ 48. Mr. Milneasked the Minister of Transport whether she is satisfied with the trade returns of Thomas Cook and Son, travel agents, and other associated travel firms operating under public ownership; and if she will institute an inquiry to examine the methods adopted by these firms to take advantage of the rapid expansion and development of the travel trade.
§ Mrs. CastleIn 1966 Thomas Cook and Son Limited and its subsidiaries maintained their share of the tourist market and increased their export-handling and foreign-exchange business. I am confident that the new chairman, 808 who was appointed on 1st June, will ensure that they continue to develop their traditionally leading role in this field.
§ Mr. MilneIs my right hon. Friend aware that maintaining business in the present expansion of the travel trade is not enough and that one should not be complacent about the growth of this section of social ownership? While we welcome the appointment of the new chairman, we look forward to substantial improvements in this section of social ownership.
§ Mrs. CastleI entirely agree with my hon. Friend that this should be an expanding field. I am sure that the new chairman is fully aware of that and will put all his efforts into developing this important national asset.
§ Mr. Kenneth LewisWould the right hon. Lady like to be really adventurous? Is not this a company which would justify an equity holding from outside so that we get a little denationalisation? It would be of advantage to the company if the right hon. Lady would be adventurous and do this.
§ Mrs. CastleI know that the hon. Gentleman is always anxious to horn in on the profits of nationalised industries.