§ 23. Mr. Clark Hutchisonasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will take steps to increase his power of supervision over the activities of the Herring Board, particularly where staff is concerned.
§ Mr. BuchanNo, Sir. Ministers' powers are in general adequate, and as regards staff I consider that the board should be responsible for its own arrangements.
§ Mr. Clark HutchisonIf an injustice arises one must deal with the board. Should there not be some system of appeal or supervisory arrangements whereby an outside body or person can give a final answer?
§ Mr. BuchanI know that the hon. Member is referring to a specific case, and that he may be meeting the chairman of the board to deal with the case. The 597 statutes are clear. It is the function of the board to look after certain aspects. I know something of the situation. As I understand it, the decision was in line with the requirements of the statutes.