HC Deb 28 November 1967 vol 755 cc233-4
Q1. Mr. Marten

asked the Prime Minister if he will define the present duties of the First Secretary of State.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Harold Wilson)

I have already told the House of my right hon. Friend's duties in relation to the social services. In addition, as a Minister without Departmental responsibilities, my right hon. Friend undertakes such work as is from time to time allotted to him.

Mr. Marten

Following on that, can the Prime Minister say who at the moment is Deputy Prime Minister, and if that person should be—

Mr. Manuel

Come off it!

Mr. Marten

If that person should be absent for some reason or another, who would come in in his stead—the First Secretary or the Chancellor of the Exchequer?

The Prime Minister

The position is laid down clearly in the table published with each new volume of HANSARD and in the Stationery Office publication. I shall be glad to send the hon. Gentleman a copy.

Mr. Lane

Will the Prime Minister ask the First Secretary to spend some of his time in trying to improve relations between Government and industry, which is all the more urgent after the rather unfortunate remarks made last week by the Chancellor of the Exchequer about the Industrial Policy Group and Sir Paul Chambers?

The Prime Minister

My right hon. Friend will carry out fully such work as he is allotted from time to time.