§ 29. Mr. Gowerasked the Paymaster-General what considerations have led to the decision to close the Welsh Office of his department, in contravention of the policy of devolution of the administration of Government Departments in Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Sir I. HorobinNo such decision has been taken.
§ Mr. GowerCan my hon. Friend give an assurance that no such decision is contemplated? Does he realise that rumours about this have been circulating in Wales? Indeed, there have been some reports in the Press which appear to give this information.
§ Sir I. HorobinI am not quite sure to what reports my hon. Friend refers. I notice that the Select Committee excepted Scotland only; but certainly it is not the view of Her Majesty's Government that Scotland should have any preference over Wales.