HC Deb 14 May 1957 vol 570 cc194-5
13. Mr. Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has yet studied the Scottish Council's Report on the industrial future of Fife; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. N. Macpherson

This Report was submitted to my right hon. Friend on 9th April, and he is considering it in consultation with my right hon. Friends the President of the Board of Trade and the Minister of Labour and National Service. He hopes to send the Scottish Council a reply before long, and will be glad to send copies of his reply to the hon. Member and to other hon. Members representing the constituencies concerned.

Mr. Hamilton

I am grateful to the hon. Gentleman. Does he recognise that the Report comments on the undue dependence of Fife on Rosyth Dockyard, and in view of the rather disquieting statement which we had yesterday about the future of the dockyards, would he give urgent consideration to this particular aspect of the problem, and to the very varying needs for the industrial development of an area where the main industry is likely to decline?

Mr. Macpherson

Yes, Sir, I shall pass what the hon. Gentleman has said to my right hon. Friend.