WELSH AFFAIRS (Hansard, 11 April 1963)

§ Q11. Mr. G. Thomas
asked the Prime Minister whether he will arrange for the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs to answer Questions concerning the Welsh Office on days other than those on which he answers Questions dealing with housing and local government.

§ The Prime Minister
The order of Questions is arranged or rearranged from time to time after consultation between the usual channels.

§ Mr. Thomas
Is it not high time that Welsh affairs were treated like Scottish affairs and given a separate time for Questions in the House? Does the Prime Minister not realise that he raised hopes last week that this might be done?

§ The Prime Minister
As much time as possible will be given, but Questions and where they fall cannot be arranged to meet everybody's desires. This is a matter which normally both sides of the House consult about in deciding what is best to be done. I will certainly bring the hon. Member's desires to the attention of our negotiating side. I hope that he will receive some support from his.

§ Q12. Mr. G. Thomas
asked the Prime Minister what variation in the powers of the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs is proposed when the Welsh Office is established in Cardiff.

§ The Prime Minister
The Minister for Welsh Affairs will become responsible, in collaboration with the other Ministers concerned, for carrying out a long-term survey of the prospects for Wales, and for producing plans for the economic and social development of the Principality. The public investment plans will be brought together, and the intention will he to stimulate growth and encourage private investment where they will serve the best interests of Wales.

§ Mr. Thomas
Am I to understand from that Answer that the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs will still be able to give only part-time to Welsh affairs? Is there any increase in his authority and power to deal with Wales, or is the Welsh Office mere window-dressing in election year?

§ The Prime Minister
It is another step forward in the process which has been going on for some time. I think that it will be found generally convenient to have these offices grouped together under the general authority or co-ordination of a Minister, particularly with a Minister of State there. I hope that the hon. Member, who has great influence, will help in making this as useful as possible to the interests of Wales.