§ 46. Mr. Grenfellasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware of the strong desire in Wales for the institution of a Welsh Office under a Secretary of State for Wales; and whether he will make a statement of the Government's intentions in the matter?
§ The Prime MinisterI would refer my hon. Friend to the answer given by my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister on 10th June last, in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend the Member for Merthyr (Mr. S. O. Davies).
§ Mr. GrenfellIn view of the unqualified success of the Scottish Office in this and previous Administrations, would not the right hon. Gentleman consider the extension of that very good example for the improvement of government in another part of the country?
§ The Prime MinisterI think that we have a tendency to have too many Ministers. One must look very jealously at new claimants.
§ Mr. GrenfellIf evidence were furnished to the Prime Minister to show that there is an overwhelming desire on the part of the people of Wales for this step, would he then consider it?
§ The Prime MinisterThis is a large topic to be dealt with at Question Time. I am well aware of the sentiment cherished by the people of Wales and also of the very warm desire to gratify those sentiments which is the instinct of the English and 1929 Scottish people. At the same time, to create this entirely new Department in present circumstances would not, I think, be practicable.
§ Mr. GrenfellIn view of the fact that the predecessors of the right hon. Gentleman listened to this case, and in view of the increased demand for this change, would he not extend an invitation to the people who wish to state the case to him?
§ The Prime MinisterI think I prefer to be a little backward in that matter.