asked the Prime Minister if the statement made by the Chancellor of the Exchequer in his recent broadcast to the effect that certain activities hitherto wholly or largely in private hands may well require a large measure of public control represents the policy of the Government.

Yes, Sir, subject of course to facts and circumstances.

Will the Prime Minister give the House any indication as to which are the activities he now has in mind that are ripe for public control?

We are all engaged in exposing to the public judgment all the views we hold on all topics, and I do not think any statement from me at this moment in the House would be a valuable addition.

Surely the right hon. Gentleman must know that the nation is waiting to know the news as to which of these activities the right hon. Gentleman and his Government, if they are returned, desire to see go under public control?

As I say, it depends on facts and circumstances. The facts may be disputable and the circumstances varied.