§ Q3. Dr. Gilbertasked the Prime Minister what representations he has received from the public that he set up a department with exclusive jurisdiction over the affairs of the banking industry.
§ The Prime MinisterNone, Sir.
§ Dr. GilbertIs the Prime Minister aware that the paragons of competition that he has been talking about—the banks—have four distinguishing characteristics in common—first, that they indulge in misleading advertising, since they do not give their true interest rates; second, that they are notorious for their collusive practices; third, that no fewer than 91 of them do not publish full and honest accounts, according to a Parliamentary Answer given to me yesterday; and, fourth, that they are a repository for those Tory Cabinet Ministers whose incompetence he can no longer bear? Now—
§ Mr. SpeakerOrder. I think that that is enough to be going on with.
§ The Prime MinisterThe hon. Gentleman has given me no question to answer. But if he wishes to refer to what is commonly called the cartel within a section of the banking industry, it was his right hon. Friend the Member for Birmingham, Stechford (Mr. Jenkins) who, when Chan- 1170 cellor of the Exchequer, refused to change the arrangements. It is this Government which are now examining them afresh.