HC Deb 25 November 1965 vol 721 cc733-4
20. Mr. Harold Walker

asked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what are the reasons for the delay in publication of the study of the Yorkshire and Humberside region.

Mr. William Rodgers

The Yorkshire and Humberside Economic Planning Council started virtually from scratch in April and the assembly and analysis of the information takes time.

Mr. Walker

Is my hon. Friend aware that the interval for preparation of this study is longer than that of the studies of the North-West, East Midland and West Midland regions? Is he further aware that the absence of the information contained in such a study is inhibiting the advisory council in its work? Would he ensure that when the study is made, it spells out clearly the economic consequences of the establishment of a new city centre for the Humberside?

Mr. Rodgers

On the final point, we are certainly very fully aware of the potentialities of Humberside for growth. On the earlier point, we wish we could have been farther advanced, but we had to start with the material which we found when we came into office, and this was very little indeed.

Mr. Lomas

I should like to ask my hon. Friend if he can give any indication to the House when this report will be published?

Mr. Rodgers

We are going ahead as fast as we can, but it would be premature to announce a date now.