Department (Transfer)

Oral Answers to Questions — National Finance – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 5 April 1955.

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Photo of Mr Charles Grey Mr Charles Grey , City of Durham 12:00, 5 April 1955

asked the Financial Secretary to the Treasury if he is now prepared to make a statement on the transfer of a Department to the North-East.

Photo of Mr Henry Brooke Mr Henry Brooke , Hampstead

I hope to be in a position to make a statement shortly. I regret I am not able to do so today.

Photo of Mr Charles Grey Mr Charles Grey , City of Durham

As I understand that that is due to the fact that the hon. Gentleman has taken so long to make up his mind about this matter, can we have an assurance that a statement will be made before the General Election?

Photo of Mr Henry Brooke Mr Henry Brooke , Hampstead

When I say "shortly," I mean shortly.

Photo of Mr David Jones Mr David Jones , Hartlepools, The

Cannot the hon. Gentleman be a little more forthcoming? Last year he told a deputation of which I was a member that he would shortly be making a statement. What does he mean by "shortly"? Is it months or years?

Photo of Mr Henry Brooke Mr Henry Brooke , Hampstead

I remember the deputation which I had the pleasure of meeting last December. I did not use the word "shortly" then, but I made certain promises, and I shall keep those promises.