§ 49. Mr. G. Thomasasked the Prime Minister what changes have been made in the duties assigned to the Secretary of State for the Home Department as Minister for Welsh Affairs.
§ The Prime MinisterNone, Sir.
§ Mr. ThomasIs the Prime Minister aware that I am not a bit surprised at the disappointing nature of his reply? Can he say whether the Minister for Welsh Affairs, who is completely without any power to deal with Welsh Affairs, is to be given any powers at all?
§ The Prime MinisterThat is a different Question from the one which the hon. Member put on the Paper.
§ Mr. GowerIs my right hon. Friend aware that people of all parties in Wales have repeatedly paid tributes to the advantages which have accrued since this new office was first set up under the former Minister, the present Lord Kilmuir, and that their satisfaction has been increased by the fact that a person bearing the honoured name of the present holder has succeeded him?
§ Mr. H. MorrisonIs the Prime Minister aware that, unless he is able to say what positive powers the Minister for Welsh Affairs has, it is something in the nature of an illusion that it should be implied that he has powers? Is there, in fact, any real difference between this and what was the practice under the previous Administration?
§ The Prime MinisterUnder the late Minister great assiduity was shown in visits to Wales, and many other good offices were performed by him. His successor has inherited the advantages.