HC Deb 11 November 1947 vol 444 cc186-7
28. Lieut.-Colonel Sir Thomas Moore

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many official Scottish Advisory Councils in connection with nationalised industries or services now exist; and what are the industries or services with which such Councils are connected.

Mr. Woodburn

There is a Scottish Advisory Council for Civil Aviation and a Scottish Advisory Council for the B.B.C. In addition, the Transport Act, 1947, provides for the setting up of a Transport Users' Consultative Committee for Scotland, and there is provision in the Coal Industry Nationalisation Act, 1946, for Regional Industrial and Domestic Coal Consumers' Councils. Under the Electricity Act, 1947, consultative councils are to be set up for the North of Scotland district and the South-West and South-East areas of Scotland. The National Health Service (Scotland) Act, 1947, provides for the setting up of a Scottish Health Services Council, and Standing Advisory Committees on particular services.

Sir T. Moore

Would it be in Order to ask how many times the advice of these Councils has been sought, and how many times it has been accepted?

Mr. Woodburn

I think the hon. and gallant Gentleman must have confidence in the ability of Scotsmen to make their advice felt when they give it.

Sir T. Moore

No, not at all.