§ Mr. Lewisasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he is aware of the disquiet felt by the Trades Union Congress, as expressed by its General Secretary, over the Government's announced cuts in the social services and increased National Insurance contributions; to what extent these new proposals were discussed during his recent discussions with the Trades Union Congress; and whether he will arrange a further meeting with the Trades Union Congress to hear their views and observations on these measures.
§ Mr. P. ThorneycroftI am aware of these views; but the measures announced by me on 19th February, as I made clear, are in no sense cuts in the social services. I am always ready to discuss with the T.U.C. economic matters of common concern.