§ 1. Mr. J. L. Williamsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the report of the Committee of Inquiry into the tenure of business premises in Scotland will be issued.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Westwood)I would refer the hon. Member to the answer which I gave to the hon. Member for South Aberdeen (Lady Grant) on 22nd July.
§ Mr. WilliamsIs my right hon. Friend aware that a large number of small business people are looking to him for protection from insecurity of tenure, which they have endured so long?
§ Mr. WestwoodI am aware that there are a fair number of people who are anxious to have the report of the Committee. This Committee has now completed its task of taking evidence and considering the evidence, and has promised to report as early as possible.
§ Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas MooreWill the right hon. Gentleman take any action before the House reassembles, as this matter has been hanging fire for a long time?
§ Mr. WestwoodThe answer is that no Minister can take any action until he has seen the report and considered it.