HC Deb 20 June 1968 vol 766 cc1281-2
4. Mr. Gibson-Watt

asked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he will announce the Government's plans for legislation to give effect to the White Paper on Local Government in Wales, Command Paper Number 3340, published in July, 1967.

Mrs. White

My right hon. Friend hopes to introduce legislation in this Parliament. Preparations are proceeding.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Is the hon. Lady aware that paragraph 2 of the introduction of the White Paper refers to: … the need for early action is particularly urgent in Wales …"? That we have not even debated the White Paper since it was produced in July, 1967, is one fact. Would the hon. Lady be prepared to go further and tell the House when we shall have legislation and when there will be a debate on it?

Mrs. White

As I am sure the hon. Members is aware, we have been very busy with consultations with the local authority associations and with representatives of all the local authorities in Wales. We have certainly not been wasting time, but Parliamentary draftsmen have now to receive instructions to proceed from my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Tudor Watkins

Can the Minister of State tell the House whether the Parliamentary draftsmen have reached such a stage that we can anticipate legislation next Session?

Mrs. White

No, I do not think it will be possible in the next Session.