HC Deb 27 March 1963 vol 674 cc1312-3
30. Mr. Morris

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he will now make a statement on the proposed Welsh Agricultural College.

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

As my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister explained to the hon. Member on 7th March, the Ministers concerned are already in the closest consultation on this matter and there will be no avoidable delay in making a statement.

Mr. Morris

Is not the Parliamentary Secretary stalling on this issue? Have not we been told that this decision would be made "soon", "very soon", and "imminently"? Were not we told by the Minister that a statement would be made before Christmas? Was not that promise dishonoured, and were not we told by the Parliamentary Secretary in early February that the decision would be made within the next few weeks?

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

Indeed, we are consulting on this matter with the greatest urgency. We are fully aware of the need for an early decision, and I hope that the hon. Gentleman will not have to wait too long.

Mr. Peart

Is the hon. Gentleman not aware that this approach is unsatisfactory? Our Welsh friends have been given promises over and over again, and all we get today is another evasion. Why does not the Minister say that he will do it now, instead of sitting there mumbling?

Mr. Scott-Hopkins

I have nothing further to add to my previous answer.

Mr. Morris

On a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I intend to raise this matter on the Adjournment at the earliest possible opportunity.