HC Deb 30 July 1963 vol 682 c227
34. Mr. Watkins

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he has now considered the representations of the Welsh Parliamentary Group concerning the status of the Welsh language; and whether he will make a statement.

Sir K. Joseph

Yes, Sir. I am appointing a small committee to inquire into this matter. Sir David Hughes-Parry has consented to be Chairman and I hope to be able to announce shortly the appointment of the two other Members.

Mr. Watkins

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this will give great satisfaction to Welsh Members? Can he tell us what the terms of reference of the Committee will be?

Sir K. Joseph

The terms of reference will be to clarify the legal status of the Welsh language and to consider whether any changes in the law ought to be made.

Mr. J. Griffiths

While I congratulate the right hon. Gentleman particularly on his choice of chairman, which will be widely approved of in Wales, may I ask whether he will consult with the Home Secretary to try to deal quickly with an anomalous position which has arisen out of a recent court decision concerning the validity of nomination forms submitted in Welsh, which may become an urgent problem if we have a General Election soon?

Sir K. Joseph

I know that the Home Secretary has this point well in mind, and I will consult with him.