Power at the Top, by Clive Jenkins

[p019] Power at the Top, by Clive Jenkins (McGibbon and Kee, 21s.) This book, which is a critical survey of the nationalized industries, should be read by everyone, especially those who have been won over by.the adverts on the hoardings which state that nationalization has failed. The sponsors of these adverts have no need to read the facts crammed into its 292 pages because they have been the people responsible for the seeming failure of nationalization. This book shows exactly who holds the reins and Clive ‘Jenkins should be given a big hand for bringing the facts into the light of day. He shows why nationalization has not come up to expec- tations and where the Labour Party failed to press their advantage at the outset to make nationalization work for the benefit of the workers and the community as it should. The failings of the Labour Party and trade union leaders are clearly shown when you read the compensation figures _ granted. to the ex-owners and the make-up of the boards _ 80 October-November 1959 formed to run these industries. Jenkins condemns the Tory government for its policy towards the nationalized industries, points out that they only de-nationalized one completely (i.e., steel), and gives the reason. Being a miner and especially interested in the NCB members, I found my own feelings confirmed that the NCB members or at least most of them have too many irons in the fire outside the industry. Take S. P. Chambers, part-time member of the NCB: his power outside coal is terrific. He sits cn numerous boards of directors. Sir Alexander Fleck, who headed the independent inquiry into the NCB’s organization is a key director of I.C.1. along with the same Mr Chambers. Remem- ber the results of this inquiry and its recommendations? Clive Jenkins reveals tie-ups and brings home to the reader the fact that the nationalized industries are run by the same people who run the rest of the big business interests in this country. He makes out a clear case for workers’ control but leaves it to the reader to make up his own mind about it. This book should make people sit up and take notice of how the Tories have completely taken over the nationalized industries by the back door. J. SWAN Below Par