By 1950, what percentage of industry was government controlled?

• A. 5%
• B. 40%
• C. 20%
• D. 60%

Answer: (C)

The question tests how extensive state ownership of industry was in Britain by 1950. After World War II, the Labour government nationalized several key sectors—coal in 1946, the railways in 1947, and utilities like gas and electricity in 1948–49. However, steel nationalization happened in 1951, and many manufacturing industries remained in private hands. So, the overall share of industry controlled by the government by 1950 was about one-fifth of the total, roughly 20%. That makes the 20% option the best fit. The other figures would overstate or understate the level of control for that period.