§ 36. Mr. C. Wilsonasked the Minister of Labour whether he is aware that in the introduction to the second industrial survey of South Wales attention is called to the limited nature of the terms of reference; and whether he will favourably consider and promote for South Wales, and/or larger areas, surveys of agriculture, of the effects of local rates upon the growth of the industry and of specifically social problems created by unemployment, such as standards of living and/or the occupation of leisure?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MuirheadThe Survey to which the hon. Member refers was carried out for the National Industrial Development Council of Wales and Monmouthshire, and I am unable to agree that the terms of reference were unduly restricted. My right hon. Friend regrets that he cannot undertake to investigate the very wide field suggested in the question.
§ Mr. WilsonDoes that answer mean that it has not been found necessary to have the information? What does it mean?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MuirheadIt simply means that this is a very wide field, and that my right hon. Friend does not feel that he can undertake the investigation.
§ Mr. WilsonIs it not considered necessary to know the effect on the rates, and so forth?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MuirheadThere are always a great many useful matters which could properly be investigated, but into which, in point of fact, investigations are not carried.