HC Deb 25 February 1936 vol 309 cc248-9
59. Mr. HENDERSON STEWART

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether his attention has been drawn to the recommendation of the Commissioner for the special areas in Scotland for the formation of an authoritative Scottish body to assist planned economic development and research; and whether, in view of the need for such a body to encourage the commerce, industry, and culture of Scotland, he is prepared to consider the formation of such a body?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for SCOTLAND (Lieut. - Colonel Colville)

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply to a question on this subject asked by the hon. and learned Member for North Edinburgh (Mr. Erskine Hill) yesterday.

Mr. STEWART

Will my hon. and gallant Friend bear in mind the growing opinion in Scotland that such a body to be effective must cover the whole of Scotland, and not only the special areas?

Lieut.-Colonel COLVILLE

If my hon. Friend will read a supplementary answer given yesterday, he will see that that point is being borne in mind.