§ 3. Mr. G. Campbellasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the proposals in the White Paper on the Scottish Economy, the Scottish Plan, continue to be based on the United Kingdom growth rate of 3.8 per cent. in the six years from 1965 to 1970, as indicated in the first paragraph of its Chapter 1.
46. Earl of Dalkeithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will issue a revised version of the 1965 White Paper on the Scottish Economy to take account of the reduction in the predicted United Kingdom growth rate upon which it was based.
§ The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. William Ross)The broad strategy of the White Paper remains unchanged, but because of the recent economic situation it will take longer to achieve the objectives. No revision of the White Paper details is at present envisaged.
§ Mr. CampbellAs the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs has stated that the revised National Plan now being prepared will extend to Scotland, will the Secretary of State for Scotland, soon after that has been done, issue another White Paper showing any changes necessary for Scotland?
§ Mr. RossI will bear in mind what the hon. Gentleman suggests, but we must appreciate that the broad strategy must remain the same—the targets must remain the same—in relation to the achievement of our aims in respect both of industry and the supporting infrastructure. What I foresee is that it will be timings that are changed rather than effort.
§ Mr. BrewisCan the right hon. Gentleman say what rate of growth he expects for this year?