HC Deb 14 March 1968 vol 760 cc1587-8
6. Mr. Tudor Watkins

asked the Secretary of State for Wales how many members will form the new Welsh Economic Council; if he will state the date when the first meeting is to take place; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

I hope to be able to announce the membership of the Welsh Council—which will not exceed 40 in number—in time for the first meeting to be held towards the end of April or early May.

Mr. Watkins

Can my right hon. Friend tell me what interests will be represented on this new Council?

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

A wide range of interests will be represented on the Council as was outlined in the White Paper on local government. They will include both sides of industry, local government, the University and others who are knowledgeable in various spheres of activity.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Would the right hon. Gentleman agree that this new Council, as he calls it, is in fact a reversion to the old Advisory Council for Wales? Secondly, has he yet a chairman for the Council? He will recall that I asked him that question last time.

Mr. Cledwyn Hughes

No chairman has yet been appointed, but really the hon. Gentleman must read the White Paper on local government, because he will see that it is not a reversion but an extension on the Welsh Economic Council.