§ 68. Mr. A. Lewisasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer whether he is aware that, as compared with the second half of 1951, in the first half of 1958 the cost of United Kingdom imports had depreciated by 19 per cent. whilst the return on the price of United Kingdom exports had increased by 7 per cent., but that the cost of living has increased over the same period, the internal purchasing value of the £ sterling has depreciated to a little over 15s., unemployment has increased, and national production has fallen off; and whether he will take the opportunity of giving a radio and television broadcast to the nation to explain the reasons for this and further explain the remedies which Her Majesty's Government are taking and intend to take to reverse this trend.
Mr. AmoryStatements of the Government's attitude towards these matters have been made from time to time, and will no doubt be made again at appropriate times. I see no special need for a broadcast statement at present.