HC Deb 25 June 1963 vol 679 cc1127-8
Q2. Dr. Bray

asked the Prime Minister whether the Lord President will retain his responsibilities for science, sport, the North-East and the Privy Council during his negotiations on a nuclear test-ban agreement.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have been asked to reply.

Yes, Sir. We expect that the discussions in Moscow will last a few days. If, of course, they are more protracted my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister will consider what arrangements should be made.

Dr. Bray

Is the First Secretary aware that it is a little difficult to remember all the noble Lord's jobs and that it was no slight to him that I forgot to mention his leadership of the House of Lords and archbishopric of the Conservative Party? Is he also aware that it is not the wish of the people in the North-East to distract attention from the disarmament negotiations, but they feel that what amounts to the development of a new concept of a regional administration needs the full-time attention of a Minister?

Mr. Butler

I think that my noble Friend's qualities are certainly multilateral. He is quite able to undertake these duties, and it should be clear that he is not being asked to take charge of the whole problem but simply of the negotiations which will, we hope, last only a few days.

Mr. Shinwell

Can the right hon. Gentleman say to which activity his noble Friend attaches the highest importance? Is it science, sport, the North-East, Moscow, the House of Lords, or his ambition to become Prime Minister?

Mr. Butler

I should need to consult my noble Friend about that.