HC Deb 14 June 1955 vol 542 cc404-5
17. Mr. T. Fraser

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will appoint a committee to inquire into the structure and functions of local authorities in Scotland.

Mr. J. Stuart

No, Sir. I am not aware of any general desire for such an inquiry on the part of local authorities in Scotland.

Mr. Fraser

Does the Secretary of State not appreciate that a great many responsible people in local government in Scotland have expressed the need for such an inquiry? There has not been such an inquiry for nigh on 30 years, and as two of the four local authority associations in Scotland have asked for such an inquiry, will he reconsider his decision?

Mr. Stuart

One does not have an inquiry unless one is satisfied that useful results can be obtained. The principal associations of local authorities have not made representations on this matter.

Mr. Hubbard

How can the right hon. Gentleman tell what results he is likely to get before he has the inquiry—whether there is a need for it or not?

Mr. Stuart

If the principal associations have not demanded an inquiry, I very much doubt whether there is sufficient ground for instituting one.

Mr. Fraser

Does the Secretary of State not consider the Convention of Royal Burghs in Scotland one of the principal associations, and would he not also include as one of the principal associations the District Councils' Association?

Mr. Stuart

I am quite aware of the views of the District Councils' Asociation —so the answer is "yes"