9. Mr. Edward M. Taylorasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what specific proposals for action he has received from the Scottish Economic Planning Board since it was established.
§ Mr. RossThe Board's main function is to co-ordinate the work of the Government Departments concerned with the formulation and execution of plans and proposals for the development of the Scottish economy. Much of the Board's work is reflected in the detailed schemes contained in the White Paper on the Scottish Economy, but the Board has also been involved in many other questions on which I and the Scottish Economic Planning Council have required its advice.
Mr. TaylorMy Question asked whether any specific proposals had been made. Has the Board made any specific proposals? If not, will the House be advised if specific proposals come forward?
§ Mr. RossThe purpose of the Economic Planning Council, as distinct from the Planning Board, has been explained time and again in the House. The Board consists mainly of civil servants representing their own Departments, who meet, who advise, and who also accept advice from the Secretary of State through the Planning Council, and these Departments go on in relation to the execution of these plans.
§ Mr. NobleDoes not the right hon. Gentleman think it a little odd that he cannot say whether or not specific proposals are being made by these people? They always were by the development group in the old days. I see no reason why these distinguished civil servants sitting and working together should not draw up plans.
§ Mr. RossOf course they do, in relation to transport, labour and, as I announced in answer to a previous Question, in relation to retraining facilities. These plans are discussed, agreement is reached and then the work is carried out. It is seen in the actual work of the Scottish Office and the other Departments.