LORD HAWKEasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether, as industry can produce more consumer goods with the existing labour force and therefore any stimulus to consumer spending will take some time to affect the employment figures, they will do more to create new jobs in the heavy industries by immediate direct spending in such fields as armaments, pollution prevention, transport and overseas aid.
EARL JELLICOEThe Government have already announced substantial measures—including increases in direct spending in the fields listed by the noble Lord—to reflate the economy and reduce unemployment. My right honourable friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer has made it clear that he is prepared to take action, as warranted by changing circumstances, and to take it at any time during the financial year.