asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement on the effects on the City of Aberdeen of his proposals for the restriction of office building, indicating in particular the effect on the building of homes for the people.

I hope that the control of office development will result in a better distribution of office employment over the country, including Scotland. I cannot say how far Aberdeen may benefit, but I certainly do not expect the control to affect adversely the provision of housing there.

Does the Minister realise that, in order to make the proposals already adumbrated by him really effective for Aberdeen, it is essential fox him to keep in close contact with the housing and town planning departments of Aberdeen municipality? Will he indicate what steps he has taken in that direction and what steps he proposes to take in the future?

The white paper which was recently published stated that comprehensive studies designed to throw light on the matters that my hon. and learned Friend has raised would be made. These would take into consideration town and country problems not only in Aberdeen but all over the country.

Would my hon. Friend ask the President of the Board of Trade to draw the attention of business heads to the fact that Aberdeen and other Scottish cities are among the most pleasant places in the world to live in, that they will be able to use their cars there, and that they would be able to have recreation after working hours, which is available in no other place in the country?

Certainly.

When can the legislation envisaged in the white paper be expected, because the continuing uncertainty is having a very bad effect?

Very soon, but we have been here only seven weeks.