HC Deb 26 February 1953 vol 511 cc2282-3
17. Mr. Gower

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department to ensure greater publicity for the work being done by the Council for Wales.

The Secretary of State for the Home Department (Sir David Maxwell Fyfe)

I do not think that any further action on my part is called for to give publicity to the work which is being done by the Council, the great value of which is, I am sure, recognised by all those who have the interests of Wales at heart.

Mr. Gower

While appreciating what my right hon. and learned Friend has said, may I ask him if he is aware that responsible people have expressed disquiet about the lack of publicity of the proceedings and also the question whether some of the proceedings, at least, should be opened to the public?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I will convey what my hon. Friend has said to the Chairman.

Mr. G. Thomas

Do I understand that the Secretary of State expressly rejects any idea of the Press being at the deliberations of this Council? Further, does he think that that would be helpful to the Council itself?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I have always felt that that was a matter for the Council itself. I am quite willing to convey to the Chairman any views expressed in the House, but I think it is a matter which should be left to the Council.

Mr. P. Morris

May I ask if this can be regarded as a precedent in order to elicit information from the Secretary of State in his capacity as Minister for Welsh Affairs—that Questions can be put to him as Secretary of State for the Home Department?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

I will look into that point.

Mr. Peter Freeman

Is the Council referred to the Council for Wales and Monmouthshire, and, if so, would it not be better to give it its proper title, and, perhaps, also add that to the publicity?

Sir D. Maxwell Fyfe

All I can say is—and perhaps I may be allowed to say it in Latin to show the depth of my regret—mea maxima culpa.