§ 4. Mr. Marksasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he will introduce legislation requiring companies making donations to political parties and pressure groups to make public those donations at the time they are made.
§ Mr. John DaviesNo, Sir. I see no advantage in such a change.
§ Mr. MarksThe right hon. Gentleman will be aware that donations made before the 1970 election need not be made public until 1972. In view of the Government's leaning towards the interests of brewers and others, does not the right hon. Gentleman think that it would be for the 7 honour and reputation of his Government and of Parliament if they were made public immediately?
§ Mr. DaviesNo, Sir. The extreme delay to which the hon. Gentleman refers is exceptional in any case, but I can see no particular advantage in accelerating publication of the information.
§ Mr. Biggs-DavisonDoes my right hon. Friend know whether the trade unions are required to publish their contributions to organisations proscribed by the Labour Party?
§ Mr. DaviesNo, Sir. I am not aware of that.