§ 23. Mr. Hattersleyasked the First Secretary of State and Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what progress has been made towards the setting up of a National Economic Development Council for the motor industry.
§ Mr. M. StewartThis matter is still under consideration, but the Economic Development Council for motor distribution and repair has now held its first meeting.
§ Mr. HattersleyDoes not the First Secretary recall that over six months ago his predecessor agreed that the setting up of a specific National Economic Development Council for the motor manufacturing industry was a matter of some urgency? Can he say whether the delay is a result of the reluctance of motor manufacturers to co-operate with the Government?
§ Mr. StewartNo. My predecessor also said on that occasion, and on other occasions, that there are a good many complicated factors which make it necessary 1572 to take great care in this matter, but progress is being made.
§ Mr. Christopher PriceWould my right hon. Friend agree that the National Advisory Council for the motor manufacturing industry simply has not got the resources, and has not, through the history we have seen of it, played the part that it could play? Also, the failure of this body makes it more necessary to get a "Little Neddy" going for the manufacturing plant as soon as possible.
§ Mr. StewartOne must recognise that the National Advisory Council has done valuable work, but it would be desirable to have a body which, for example, could concentrate more closely on industrial efficiency, economic planning and contacts with other sectors of industry, and that makes the case for what we are now trying to do.