HC Deb 20 June 1950 vol 476 c1060
44. Mr. Grimond

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he hopes to be able to make a statement on the findings of the inquiry into the Shetland wool scheme.

Mr. T. Fraser

The Commissioner's Report on the public inquiry into the objections to the draft Shetland Wool Marketing Scheme was made 10 days ago and is being considered. This consideration may yet take some time.

Mr. Grimond

Bearing in mind the difficult situation which faces the crofters at the present time, will the hon. Gentleman give an assurance that no final decision will be taken on the matter until full publicity has been given to the findings of the inquiry and an opportunity given to the crofters to represent their point of view upon it?

Mr. Fraser

It is the duty of the Government to consider the Commissioner's Report and then to have consultations, if need be, with the promoters of the scheme. I think that we had better consider the Report and have discussions with the promoters before we indulge in any publicity campaign.