HC Deb 06 July 1970 vol 803 cc297-8
3. Mr. Elystan Morgan

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will give an assurance that Her Majesty's Government will proceed with the establishment of a Rural Development Board for Wales on lines identical with the Rural Development Board which is already functioning in the Pennines.

5. Mr. John Stradling Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what are the Government's intentions in regard to the Wales Rural Development Board.

Mr. Peter Thomas

The Government have decided not to proceed with the proposal for a Rural Development Board in Wales. We believe that it would be wrong to ignore the force and strength of local feeling on this matter. We believe, moreover, that a board could make no effective contribution to the problems of its area if it lacked essential local support.

The Government fully recognise that Mid-Wales needs help. We are formulating our policies to provide this help—but we are clear that it will have to take a different form from that proposed by the previous Administration.

Mr. Morgan

Does the Secretary of State appreciate that the information he has just given the House will be a source of great disappointment to many people of all parties living in Wales and that they will regard the Minister as having succumbed to the suspicions and doubts that have been raised by ruthless political operators in Mid-Wales?

Mr. Peter Thomas

No, Sir. I am fully aware that it will be greatly welcomed by the majority of the people of Mid-Wales, whom these proposals were intended to help.

Mr. J. S. Thomas

Is the Minister aware that the decision will be widely welcomed, not only in the area affected but throughout Wales? Do the Government intend to consider sound proposals with a view to bringing in effective measures for dealing with the problems of this part of Wales?

Mr. Peter Thomas

I agree with the first part of my hon. Friend's question. My answer to the second part is "Yes".

Mr. George Thomas

Since the Rural Development Board would have given at least £500,000 a year to Mid-Wales, will the Secretary of State tell us how long we shall have to wait for his plans, and when he will submit them to the House?

Mr. Peter Thomas

As the right hon. Gentleman knows, the amount of money that would be given to the Mid-Wales area through the development board would not be £500,000 for some time to come. I agree that Mid-Wales needs help, and I am studying alternative ways in which it can be helped. Other Departments are likely to be involved, and in formulating our policy there will be full local consultations.