§ Q4. Mr. J. P. W. Mallalieuasked the Prime Minister whether, in his consultations on the state of the economy, he will meet representatives of the Association of British Chambers of Commerce, in addition to the Confederation of British Industry and the Trades Union Congress.
§ The Prime MinisterI would refer the hon. Gentleman to the reply I gave on 20th March to a Question from the hon. Member for Huddersfield, West (Mr. Lomas].—[Vol. 833, c. 262–3.]
§ Mr. MallalieuI read that reply. Is it not probably true, however, that direct 228 discussions are better and more rewarding than representations on paper? Does the right hon. Gentleman agree that direct discussions with the representatives of smaller firms and smaller industries would be at least as rewarding as discussions with bigger firms and their representatives?
§ The Prime MinisterI agree about that, and I think that the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question arises from the approach of the local chamber of commerce in Huddersfield. We have had no request for a meeting or an approach of that kind from the Association of British Chambers of Commerce. However, as I said in my earlier answer, we fully appreciate the value of such discussions, and are prepared to have them when approaches are made.
§ Sir Gilbert LongdenIs my right hon. Friend aware that if he met the association he would be among friends, because it has recently described the Budget as bold and imaginative, and one that will help industry and commerce and especially small firms and individuals?
§ The Prime MinisterYes, Sir. That is a description which it well deserves.