§ Q5. Mr. Douglasasked the Prime Minister what arrangements have been made for co-ordination between the Scottish Office and the Department of Trade and Industry on matters of regional policy as a consequence of the recent appointment of new Ministers in both Departments.
§ Mr. MaudlingI have been asked to reply.
There have always been close links between the Scottish Office and the Department of Trade and Industry on regional policy matters. The new arrangements will ensure that these continue.
§ Mr. DouglasWill the righthon. Gentleman accept that in present circumstances there is a great deal of confusion about which is the appropriate Ministry to approach for regional assistance in Scotland? Will he take urgent steps to explain the position to industrialists in Scotland to ensure that they obtain the requisite knowledge in advance of enactment of the Industry Bill which is now going through the House?
§ Mr. MaudlingIf there is any confusion we shall clear it up.
§ Mr. Bruce-GardyneIs it true, as reported this morning, that the NEDC yesterday suggested to my right hon. Friend 704 the Chancellor of the Exchequer that the Industry Bill was not, as some of us feel, totally without spot or blemish? If this is so, will my right hon. Friend place before the Committee which is to consider this Bill a transcript of the discussions at yesterday's meeting of the NEDC?
§ Mr. MaudlingI have seen the Press report in question. If my hon. Friend tables a Question to the Chancellor of the Exchequer, no doubt it will be answered.
§ Mr. MillanWill the functions of the new Scottish Development Board be advisory, or will it have executive functions with its own finance?
§ Mr. MaudlingIt is intended that its functions should be advisory. Where finance is provided, it must be subject to the control of the House.