HC Deb 11 March 1947 vol 434 cc1116-8
31. Mr. Malcolm MacMillan

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the Scottish Economic White Paper will be published.

Mr. Westwood

The preparation of a White Paper on industry and employment in Scotland is in hand, and it is hoped to publish it before the Whitsun Recess.

Mr. MacMillan

Is my right hon. Friend aware that Scottish Members enter the present Debate—if they do enter it—under the handicap that they have not got full and up-to-date information on the Scottish economic situation? Will he consult with the Leader of the House and other colleagues, with a view to giving us at least two days to debate the Scottish economic situation; will he undertake to have consultations to that effect?

Mr. Westwood

The question of the allocation of the time of the House is a matter for the Leader of the House and not for me.

Major Guy Lloyd

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many Scottish people hope that when this White Paper is produced it will be more realistic than his own speech recently on the state of Scotland?

Mr. MacMillan

May I press the right hon. Gentleman? Will he undertake, at all events, to press his colleague the Leader of the House, and anyone else concerned with making these arrangements, for a two days' Debate? It is an extremely important matter for Scottish Members.

Hon. Members

Answer.

Mr. Westwood

I am always ready to discuss with my colleagues any question affecting Scotland.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

I have two questions. First, would the right hon. Gentleman not only discuss it but do a bit of gingering up work with his colleagues, and see that they listen to him; secondly, could we not have this White Paper before the Easter Recess and not before the Whitsun Recess, which would at any rate help?

Mr. Westwood

No Secretary of State for Scotland in the past has had a more sympathetic body of colleagues and more help in the fight for Scotland than I have.