§ 18. Mr. Mathersasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a statement of Government policy regarding the Scottish Special Areas; and whether he can announce the appointment of a new Commissioner?
§ 25. Mr. Robert Gibsonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland, seeing that the Commissioner for the Special Areas in Scotland has taken up active duties in the Royal Air Force, what provision has been made for the carrying on of the work of that office?
§ Mr. ColvilleThe Government's policy regarding the Special Areas was stated by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Labour on 21st September. In the absence of the Commissioner of the Scottish Special Areas on military service, the work of the office is being carried on meantime by the Assistant Commissioner. The question of a new appointment is under consideration.
§ Mr. MathersIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Minister of Labour declined to reply to points relating to Scotland? May I refer to that answer now and ask whether the work in the Special Areas is to go on, as far as it may, in present conditions?
§ Mr. ColvilleThe answer which the right hon. Gentleman the Minister of Labour gave referred to the Special Areas in the whole country. He could not answer specific points about the Commissioner for the Special Areas in Scotland, 1187 but if the hon. Member will read the answer I think he will see that it covers the question which he has raised.