§ 19. Mr. Willeyasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what consultation he has had with the North Regional Planning Committee about the Northern Economic Planning Council's statement, Northern Region, an Outline Strategy of Development to 1981.
§ The Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster (Mr. Frederick Lee)None, Sir. but I understand that the Northern Economic Planning Council discussed its outline strategy in draft with the Committee and that the two bodies meet again soon.
§ Mr. WilleyIs my right hon. Friend aware that that is a little disappointing and that he should realise that this Council was superimposed in a region upon many very valuable regional organisations? Will he see that these valuable authoritative organisations are brought fully into the consideration of regional problems?
§ Mr. LeeBy all means. As I have indicated, there was discussion between the two bodies, and I understand that 1692 further discussions will take place. We have just had a request for a meeting on general regional policy with the Committee, and we shall consider that favourably.
§ 20. Mr. Willeyasked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what action he is taking pursuant to the Northern Regional Economic Planning Council's proposals on outline strategy for development to 1981.
§ Mr. Frederick LeeThe important proposals contained in the Planning Council's Report are being carefully examined and the Government's views on them will be made known in due course.
§ Mr. WilleyFollowing my earlier supplementary Question, will my right hon. Friend consider the possibility of the Council promoting a conference on the widest manageable basis so that there may be a full discussion within the region of this Report and its implications?