HC Deb 01 April 1976 vol 908 c519W
Q5. Mr. Tim Renton

asked the Prime Minister whether he will make it his practice to dismiss Cabinet Ministers who publicly dissent from Government policy.

Mr. Edward Short

I have been asked to reply.

In general, a Minister who is unable to support the policy of the Government cannot remain a Minister; but the circumstances of the individual case must clearly be taken into account and the hon. Member should be careful about the interpretation he places on public dissent.