HC Deb 31 March 1955 vol 539 c524
4. Mr. Vane

asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the last report rendered to him by the Development Commissioners was laid before Parliament.

The Financial Secretary to the Treasury (Mr. Henry Brooke)

On 31st January, 1940. The preparation of annual reports by the Development Commissioners was suspended shortly after this as a measure of economy.

Mr. Vane

Will my hon. Friend try again to publish the Commissioners' reports and to give some publicity to the work of this body, which is of importance not only to the countryside in general but also to agriculture in particular?

Mr. Brooke

I welcome the opportunity to give my hon. Friend the assurance that it is the intention to resume regular reports. The staff of the Development Commissioners is small, but the reports will certainly be prepared and published.