HC Deb 13 October 1975 vol 897 cc845-6
12. Mr. Adley

asked the Secretary of State for Industry what recent representations he has received asking him to abandon his proposals to nationalise the aircraft industry.

Mr. Kaufman

Since the Bill was published, my right hon. Friend has had some half a dozen such letters. He has received many more from those who favour the Bill and wish it to be enacted as soon as possible.

Mr. Adley

So as to ascertain fully the views of the industry, why does not the Minister conduct a referendum among those who work in it and discover whether they want this plan? Is he not aware that this irrelevant measure will do nothing to solve the crisis created by this Government? Is he further aware that when his right hon. Friend the Secretary of State was appointed many people hoped that we would see the end of "Bemifoolery", and are disappointed now to see that it has been replaced by "extra-Varley-ganza"?

Mr. Kaufman

The hon. Gentleman maintains his normal level of wit and charm. The present Secretary of State is pursuing policies identical to those of his predecessor—policies which were endorsed by the British people at two General Elections. As for the wishes of the trade unionists, if those who work in the industry had had their way it would have been nationalised in the last Session.

Mr. Lane

If the Minister removed his blinkers, would he not be aware that there is great uneasiness among a number of the smaller companies which will be affected, on the fringe of the main industry, including several in East Anglia? In view of the Government's failure to make out a convincing case for this measure, would it not be better now to leave it for good in the pigeon hole?

Mr. Kaufman

We made out the case and it was accepted by the electorate.