§ Q4. Mr. Milneasked the Prime Minister if he will make an official visit to the North-East to examine employment and other problems of the area, with a view to early action.
§ Mr. R. A. ButlerI have been asked to reply.
My right hon. Friend is always glad of an opportunity to revisit the North-East. 1131 But there is no occasion at the present time for the sort of visit the hon. Gentleman has in mind, as my right hon. Friend has just received a comprehensive and detailed report on the problems of the region.
§ Mr. MilneIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the question of action was also mentioned in my Question and that we have had no reply to that point? While we are included among the multilateral activities of the Lord President of the Council, we are finding no benefit from him. If the opportunity offers itself, will the First Secretary himself pay a visit to the area?
§ Mr. ButlerMy right hon. Friend the Prime Minister received this report yesterday and it cannot be expected that action arising out of it can be announced today. If anyone is to visit the North-East, the most suitable person is my noble Friend; and he proposes to go back there on 28th June.