§ Mr. Tim Rentonasked the Secretary of State for Industry whether he will hold a referendum among those who work in British industry, including managers, to ascertain whether they wish the National Enterprise Board to purchase a stake in their company; and whether he will allow 264W his policies to be guided by the result of this referendum.
§ Mr. HefferIt is Government policy that where proposals are made for the extension of public ownership to a particular industry or firm the workers, as well as the other interests affected, will be consulted and their views will be taken into account. In this, as in other matters, the National Enterprise Board will be expected to work within the framework of Government policy.