HC Deb 21 December 1966 vol 738 cc1405-6
29. Mr. Buchanan-Smith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the Tayside Study Group will be appointed.

Mr. Ross

The Group held its first meeting yesterday.

Mr. Buchanan-Smith

Will this group have any responsibility in respect of the transport needs of the Tayside area where the decision has been taken to close the Strathmore line? Many people are concerned to know what function the group will have in respect of this kind of problem.

Mr. Ross

If it had been in existence, it would have been consulted. I am sure that one of the advantages of these local area groups is that they will be able to inform us of the transport needs for promoting the economic life of the area.

Mr. James Davidson

Would the right hon. Gentleman tell the House what is intended to be the northern limit of the area of study of this Tayside group?

Mr. Ross

It goes from Dundee to Perth. I know that there is much concern in relation to Aberdeen, but that area, which the hon. Member represents, has its own area group. I see no conflict between the two areas, and I think that the best way to proceed is along these lines.

Mr. Bruce-Gardyne

Does the Secretary of State agree that the Tayside group had already been set up before the decision on the Strathmore line was announced and, therefore, could have been consulted and should have been consulted?

Mr. Ross

I said the first meeting was yesterday.