HC Deb 05 July 1955 vol 543 cc953-4
49. Mr. Chichester-Clark

asked the Prime Minister if he will now define more clearly the proposed relationship between Her Majesty's Government, the Advisory Development Council for Northern Ireland and the Government of Northern Ireland in dealing with unemployment.

The Prime Minister

I do not think I can add to what my right hon. and gallant Friend the Home Secretary said in the debate on 5th May. The Council will be set up by the Northern Ireland Government, and will advise that Government on ways of promoting further economic development. Her Majesty's Government in the United Kingdom will be ready to lend their support in whatever way seems most appropriate.

Mr. Chichester-Clark

Has my right hon. Friend anything to add to his answer about who will be the chairman of this body, or will that pronouncement come from the Northern Ireland Government?

The Prime Minister

I am not in a position to make any statement on that at present, but I hope it will be possible to do so very shortly.

Mr. Callaghan

As the Home Secretary said on 5th May that this Council was being set up almost immediately, what is the reason for a delay of two months?

The Prime Minister

As the hon. Gentleman knows, there have to be consultations with the Northern Ireland Government and also agreement about the individual who is to be chairman of this Council. I think it is worth while taking a little time to get this arrangement correct, rather than make a hurried arrangement and find that we have not exactly what we want or who we want.