HC Deb 13 May 1969 vol 783 c1203
17. Mr. Gwynfor Evans

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what are his plans in regard to the future of the Rural Development Board.

Mr. George Thomas

I cannot at present add to the statement which I made in reply to the hon. Member on 2nd April.—[Vol. 781, c. 117.]

Mr. Evans

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that in the report of the Aberystwyth inquiry it was stated that, in its early stages, the Rural Development Board had been "wise, patient and forbearing" in its public relations? For how long are these early stages to continue? Is it to be for one year, two years or longer? For how long will the Board have to be wise, patient and forbearing?

Mr. Thomas

The answer is, "For as long as necessary".

Mr. Gower

Would the right hon. Gentleman ensure that the very real anxieties which have been expressed in many of the counties affected will be carefully considered by him and the Board?

Mr. Thomas

We, of course, take into full consideration all public feelings that are expressed.

Mr. William Edwards

Will my right hon. Friend ensure that, when the period of wisdom and forbearance comes to an end, the Board will not be invested with the sort of powers which the hon. Member for Carmarthen (Mr. Gwynfor Evans) would like it to have; namely, that it should be a Tennessee Valley type of organisation for the whole of Wales?

Mr. Thomas

Yes, Sir. I gladly give that assurance because we are determined to protect the interests of the farmers.