§ 16. Mr. McInnesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the comprehensive survey undertaken by the Scottish Council (Development and Industry) into the causes of the present high rate of unemployment in Scotland and the suggestions which it has advanced to deal with this matter; and what action he proposes to take on the matter.
§ Mr. MaclayI have read the report of this survey, and I shall, of course, consider any representations the Scottish Council may make on the issues raised in it, some of which are already receiving the Government's attention.
§ Mr. McInnesIs not the right hon. Gentleman aware that some of the suggestions contained in the Scottish Council's report have been advocated for a considerable time from this side of the House, notably the provision of a strip mill and a dry dock and the introduction of new industry? Will he be a little more bold and courageous when he is pressing Scotland's claim before his Cabinet colleagues?
§ Mr. MaclayI assure the hon. Member that I am being extremely firm and strong in the representations that I am making in matters of industrial developments and distribution in Scotland.