HC Deb 09 May 1950 vol 475 cc170-1
3. Mr. Henderson Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he can now state the Government's intentions in response to the widespread desire in Scotland for a full inquiry into the financial relations now subsisting between Scotland and the United Kingdom Treasury.

Mr. McNeil

I am not in a position to add to replies to previous Questions on this subject.

Mr. Henderson Stewart

Does the Minister recall that it is now many weeks since I began putting down this almost weekly Question? Does he not know that the demand throughout Scotland for an inquiry of this kind is quite universal, and that he really must address himself to Scotland's requirements?

Mr. McNeil

I shall not, of course, overlook Scotland's requirements, but I would remind the hon. Gentleman that he was for many years a part of a Government which did nothing even about considering the subject.

Lieut.-Colonel Elliot

Does the Minister know when he will be able to make a statement on the subject?

Mr. McNeil

Reasonably shortly.

Lieut.-Colonel Elliot

Would it be before Thursday?

Mr. McNeil

I should like to leave the right hon. and gallant Gentleman to make his own interpretation.

Mr. McGovern

Has the Minister made any representation to the Government on the subject, and does he hope to get a favourable answer?

Mr. McNeil

It is most unusual for a Minister to make any statement of that kind.