§ 30. Mr. Malcolm MacPhersonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he appointed the commissioner to inquire into the site of the new buildings proposed to be erected by the University of St. Andrews; when the commissioner held his inquiry; and whether the commissioner has yet reported.
§ 34. Mr. Hamiltonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a further statement on the proposed extension of St. Andrew's University.
§ Mr. MaclayThe commissioner was appointed on 14th August. The inquiry began on 23rd September and concluded with an inspection of sites on 11th October. The commissioner's report has recently been received, and I hope to announce my decision shortly.
§ Mr. MacPhersonHas not this whole procedure taken unusually long? Does the right hon. Gentleman recall that he promised to publish the report, and will it be published shortly?
§ Mr. MaclayIt will be published in due course after my decision is made.
§ Mr. HamiltonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that this is a question of very great national concern and that a speedy decision is very important? In view of the fact that the Government have recently announced great steps for the progress of education, will he translate those words into actions by producing a speedy decision in the matter?
§ Mr. MaclayI am very anxious to get this decision out as quickly as possible. It was a big task for the commissioner appointed to hold the inquiry, and the matter needs very careful consideration.