HC Deb 24 February 1975 vol 887 cc20-1
18. Mr. Golding

asked the Secretary of State for Energy how many directives he has issued to chairmen of nationalised industries since October 1974.

Mr. Varley

Two to the chairman of the British Gas Corporation and three to the chairman of the Electricity Council on routine matters relating to the repayment of NLF advances.

Mr. Golding

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many people in the coal industry are unhappy that the National Coal Board has membership of the CBI? Does he agree that it is strange for the board to contribute to a body which is so opposed to public ownership? Will he issue a general directive to the board to get out of the CBI?

Mr. Varley

I know that the nationalised fuel industries regard membership of the CBI as being to their advantage. I should like chairmen of nationalised industries who attend CBI meetings to take every opportunity to press for and speak about the advantages of public ownership.