HC Deb 26 June 1961 vol 643 cc24-5
29. Mr. Rankin

asked the Minister of Labour what modifications will be imposed on the Scottish industrial development programme as a result of the Chancellor of the Exchequer's curtailment of Government expenditure.

Mr. Hare

My right hon. and learned Friend has announced no detailed plans for the curtailment of Government expenditure.

Mr. Rankin

But, of course, is the Minister not aware that if the Question had been framed in that way it would not have reached the Order Paper, for it would have been hypothetical? Is the Minister telling us, then, that in his speech on Thursday night the Chancellor of the Exchequer did not make it perfectly clear that he proposes to reduce or to modify, if necessary, Government expenditure abroad? Is that untrue? Is it also untrue that the Chancellor made it perfectly clear that he proposes to restrict building schemes, and will that not affect Scottish industrial development programmes?

Mr. Hare

I admire the ingenuity of the hon. Gentleman in getting this Question on the Order Paper in the form he has. As far as the interpretation of my right hon. and learned Friend the Chancellor's speech is concerned, I would suggest that the Chancellor is available to be questioned on these matters in the House, and I feel sure that he would be able to give a better account than I could.

Mr. Rankin

Ingenuity!