HC Deb 22 May 1978 vol 950 c1112
Mr. Adley

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker. May I seek your guidance relating to the slightly unusual situation in which we find ourselves as Members as a result of the conflicting advice which we receive from three different nationalised industries, namely, British Airways, British Aerospace and Rolls-Royce?

The Secretary of State for Industry made a perfectly reasonable and balanced assessment of the position this afternoon, but some of the things that he said are in marked contrast to a Press release or information sent to a number of hon. Members by Rolls-Royce, entitled "The Way Forward", included in which were some comments which, being generous, one would describe as wishful thinking and not the sort of specific information which Members would expect to receive from a nationalised industry unless it were absolutely certain of its facts. Included were such phrases as This would lead us to a very high penetration of the market and making a total United Kingdom content of 55 per cent. According to the information that I have, both these statements are a matter of argument. Where does the House stand in relation to information sent to hon. Members from nationalised industries? Are we not entitled to expect more care in the provision of information on some of these controversial matters?

Mr. Speaker

I heard the hon. Gentleman out, but I think that he will realise that there is no point of order for me to settle regarding statements issued by nationalised industries.