HC Deb 02 June 1964 vol 695 cc910-1
27. Mr. Watkins

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what is the purpose of the circular issued by his Welsh Office on 13th April to local authorities in Wales headed The Welsh Survey; aid to what extent authorities within the area of the Mid-Wales Industrial Development Association are affected by it, in view of the Report on Rural De-population for this area which he has had since May, 1963.

Mr. Corfield

The circular was designed to give local authorities in Wales and Monmouthshire, including Mid-Wales, an opportunity to contribute views and information which might be of help in carrying out the survey.

Mr. Watkins

Is the Minister aware that seven Reports on Mid-Wales have been issued since this Government have been in office? Surely to goodness this kind of information is not required after the last Report which was published last week? What is the purpose of it all? Cannot we get some action instead of Reports?

Mr. Corfield

The hon. Gentleman would be the first to agree that Mid-Wales should not be left out of the general regional studies. I am equally certain that if this opportunity had not been offered to the local authorities in connection with this survey, the hon. Gentleman again would have been the first to complain. I can assure him that this further and wider survey will not prejudice action which may be taken under the Reports he has in mind and on which my right hon. Friend will make a statement very soon.