§ 10. Mr. Sillarsasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what recent representations he has received from the Trades Union Congress about further stimulating economic growth; and what replies he has sent.
§ Mr. HigginsThe answer to the first part of the Question is none; the second part therefore does not arise.
§ Mr. SillarsIs the Minister aware of the T.U.C contention that unless steps are taken further to stimulate economic growth beyond the level calculated in the Budget judgment, unemployment in the coming winter will be even higher than the present disastrous figure?
§ Mr. HigginsI do not propose to put forward a specific forecast of unemployment. This has never been done. On the general strategy, which we have already discussed during Question Time today, I believe that we are striking the right balance and that a further programme of expansion, which has been debated on the Floor of the House and in Committee on various Amendments, would not be justified at this stage.
§ Mr. James HamiltonDoes not the hon. Gentleman agree that we are now in this hopeless situation because the Government have not accepted the advice of the T.U.C? Will he further agree that if we do not take measures now, we shall most certainly have 1 million unemployed?
§ Mr. HigginsI do not accept the second point, which is something the hon. Gentleman must take responsibility for. My right hon. Friend a few moments ago expressed his views on this very clearly.