§ 29. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings whether he can make a statement on the regional policy of the Ministry; will he set up a committee of geographers, and other interested people, to advise on the regions to be adopted, having regard to a regional system of government, economic needs, planning, regional system of co-ordinated services and administration on a sound geographical basis, and ask them to report as soon as possible?
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Buildings (Mr. Hicks)Representatives of the Ministry of Works and Buildings are stationed at the headquarters of all the Regional Commissioners and in co-operation with their colleagues from other Departments and with the local authorities concerned, are actively engaged in the current work of the Ministry. As my hon. Friend is no doubt aware, the wider issues involved in his Question are being referred to a Committee of Ministers presided over by my right hon. Friend the Minister without Portfolio.
§ Mr. SmithWould it be advisable, before the Committee of Ministers considers this matter, for representatives of the various interests in the building industry and in general administrative questions to have an opportunity of discussing it, so that they could advise the Committee?