9. Mr. J. J. DAVIDSONafter the Minister of Labour whether any further special consultation with regard to the Special Areas have taken place; and, if so, has he anything to report to the House?
§ Mr. E. BROWNI have nothing to add to the replies given on 23rd November to the hon. Member for Aberdare (Mr. G. Hall) and on 25th November to the hon. Member for Pontypool (Mr. Jenkins).
Mr. DAVIDSONAs the newspapers of the country have been circulating reports during the past week that steps have been taken, does the Minister deny it?
§ Mr. GEORGE HALLAs this matter has been in the hands of the right hon. Gentleman and his Department for the last 15 months, is it not time something were done?
§ Mr. LAWSONMay I ask whether the Government have, in the light of their experience, decided to withdraw the Special Areas Bill?