§ 40. Mr. Shinwellasked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what are the obstacles to a progressive increase in home production of four to six per cent. in the next three years; and whether he has a plan to make such increases possible.
§ Mr. BrookeThe most serious obstacle to sound economic growth in this country is that our competitive position in international trade has not been strong enough. An increase of four to six per cent. per annum in home production, unless accompanied by a corresponding increase in exports, might only worsen our balance of payments problem. The Government's policies, including in particular its incomes policy, are intended to make us more competitive. Futhermore, examination52W of the obstacles to quicker growth will be one of the main functions of the National Economic Development Council.