§ 28. Mr. Fred Evansasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will appoint to the Welsh Office staff a person qualified to act in liaison with the Public Health Inspectorate in Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Gibson-WattI am satisfied that adequate arrangements already exist in the Welsh Office for liaison with local 1171 authorities on matters which are the concern of the Public Health Inspectorate.
§ Mr. EvansWill the hon. Gentleman accept that the Public Health Inspectorate does not agree with that viewpoint? Is he not aware that increasingly the inspectorate is playing an important part in the environment of Wales? It took a major part in the sample housing survey in Wales. It has onerous duties in connection with noise pollution, its measurement and the initiation of action to deal with it. It will become increasingly important in consumer protection through the food and drugs legislation. Does the hon. Gentleman accept that though professional organisations in local government in Wales have a direct link with the Welsh Office, this does not apply to the Public Health Inspectorate? Will he please give further consideration to this matter?
§ Mr. Gibson-WattThe Welsh Office is glad to have regular contacts with the Association of Public Health Inspectors and to discuss matters of common concern, but I see no necessity to appoint a special liaison officer, nor am I aware that difficulties have arisen under the present arrangements or that my right hon. and learned Friend is lacking in appropriate advice.