HC Deb 29 March 1971 vol 814 c1138
17. Mr. George Thomas

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what changes he proposes to make in the terms of reference of the Welsh Council; and whom he has appointed as the new Chairman.

Mr. Peter Thomas

I shall make a statement as soon as possible on the terms of reference and membership of the Welsh Council. I announced on 23rd March that Mr. Melvyn W. Rosser had accepted my invitation to succeed Professor Brinley Thomas as Chairman of the Council.

Mr. George Thomas

Is the Secretary of State aware that he keeps the House waiting an inordinate time for his decision? When will he make this statement about the terms of reference of the Welsh Council? He is getting a reputation for causing the longest delay in Whitehall.

Mr. Peter Thomas

I am studying the terms of reference in detail to see whether they need any slight amendment in the interests of greater clarity, but I do not envisage that there will be any substantial changes. As to delay, I have got in touch with the T.U.C., the C.B.I., local authority associations and county and county borough councils, and am now considering their nominations.