Highlands (Report).

Oral Answers to Questions — Scotland. – in the House of Commons at on 21 March 1939.

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Photo of Sir James Henderson-Stewart Sir James Henderson-Stewart , Fife Eastern

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether any of the recommendations in the report on the Highlands, other than those refer ring to a development commissioner and a central marketing agency, would require the creation of new administrative machinery?

Photo of Mr John Colville Mr John Colville , Midlothian and Peeblesshire Northern

It is difficult to give a categorical answer in regard to recommendations covering such a wide range but, in the case of the Departments under my control, my present view is that the recommendations referred to, would not entail the creation of new administrative machinery although additional funds, staff and powers would be required.

Mr. Stewart:

If no new administrative machinery is required, what prevents the right hon. Gentleman taking immediate steps to carry out the recommendations in this report?

Photo of Mr John Colville Mr John Colville , Midlothian and Peeblesshire Northern

My hon. Friend refers to the development commissioner and a central marketing agency, which are important parts of the general recommendations and would involve new machinery. For the rest I have said that the committee's recommendations would probably require additional funds and powers.

Mr. J. J. Davidson:

May I ask whether the fact that additional funds would be required for these other questions means that the matter is ended as far as Scotland is concerned?

Photo of Mr John Colville Mr John Colville , Midlothian and Peeblesshire Northern

It would be a mistake to assume that.

Photo of Mr William Gallacher Mr William Gallacher , Fife Western

Is the Secretary of State prepared to meet a deputation of hon. Members to discuss the recommendations in this report?