§ 46. Mr. Malcolm MacMillanasked the Prime Minister whether he will be prepared to receive a deputation from the Scottish Labour Council for self-government to present their views on the growing need for a Scottish Parliament to deal adequately with the problems of Scottish economic and social life?
§ The Prime MinisterI regret that in present circumstances I am unable to receive a deputation from the body referred to, but I shall be willing to consider any written observations which may be sent to me. I cannot, however, be taken as agreeing with the view attributed to the council in the hon. Member's question.
§ Mr. MacMillanIn view of the fact that Scotland has so little say in questions of defence against war and national reconstruction in peace, does the right hon. Gentleman not agree that there is some case for receiving a deputation?
§ The Prime MinisterI said that I shall be very willing to consider any written observations that may be sent in by that organisation, and if they wish to put that particular point of view, I shall be glad to consider it.
§ Mr. ThorneDoes the right hon. Gentleman not think that if a plebiscite were taken on this question, the Scottish people would remain where they are?