§ 24. Mr. Gowerasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what representations he has received calling for the setting-up of a Welsh National Trust; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. DeedesMy right hon. and gallant Friend has been approached informally about this proposal, but neither he nor any other Minister has any responsibility for the National Trust, which is an independent body deriving its powers from private Acts of Parliament. The possibility of establishing a separate Welsh National Trust would require legislation, and this is a matter for direct discussion with the National Trust.
§ Mr. GowerMay I assume from the Answer that there is nothing to stop people in Wales promoting a Private Bill for the purpose? Would my hon. Friend also agree that, apart from the merits of the proposal, it might well be possible that people in Wales would be more disposed to give aid to or make bequests to a Welsh body than to a United Kingdom body?