HC Deb 04 December 1951 vol 494 cc2202-3
19. Mr. Malcolm MacPherson

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in view of the comparable nature of many of the problems of the two areas, he will consider appointing for the border counties an advisory body broadly similar to the Highlands and Islands Advisory Panel.

Mr. J. Stuart

I do not consider that it is necessary to add to the agencies from which advice is already available to the Government on questions affecting the Borders. I may say we can obtain advice from the Scottish Council and elsewhere.

Mr. MacPherson

Would the right hon. Gentleman agree that the fact that the Highland Panel has given continual attention and been able to keep under continuing review all the problems of its area is a useful indication of the kind of thing which might be an improvement on the provisions for the Borders?

Mr. Stuart

With regard to the particular Border problems, I mentioned the Scottish Council; but at the present time they are being investigated by a committee set up by the South of Scotland Chamber of Commerce at the request of the Scottish Council and I can assure the hon. Member that the matter will not be lost sight of.

Mr. MacPherson

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the committee appointed by the South of Scotland Chamber of Commerce has a limited remit to consider action just in the immediate future, which is quite distinct from making a review of all the problems of the area?

Mr. Stuart

I confess I was not aware that the Borders were urgently in need, or particularly desirous, of such investigation. If the hon. Member would like to bring any further points to my attention I will gladly consider them.