§ 19. Colonel J. R. H. Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representation Scotland has on the Economic Planning Committee; and what direct contact with the administrator under European Economic Co-operation.
§ Mr. WoodburnThe Scottish Departments are in continuous touch with the work of the various official committees concerned with economic planning and European Economic Co-operation. On matters affecting Scotland they contribute their views and are represented at meetings as necessary.
§ Colonel HutchisonAm I to understand from that reply that there is no direct representation on the Economic Planning Committee, or with the Administrator, so far as Scottish industry is concerned? Am I right in my understanding that it merely goes through departmental channels and that the right hon. Gentleman has not himself pressed that he should be present at some of these negotiations and discussions?
§ Mr. WoodburnIt is not for us to decide what representation industry will send to this Committee. The Trades Union Congress, the British Federation of 677 Industry, and the British Employers' Confederation are entitled to choose their representatives, some of whom are Scots and some are not. This is not a federal body. England and Wales and Ireland have no representation any more than Scotland.