HC Deb 01 May 1972 vol 836 cc9-10
9. Mr. Kinnock

asked the Secretary of State for Wales how many officials in his Department are engaged in securing additional industrial development in Wales; and how many additional officials will be required in his Department as a consequence of the proposals in Command Paper No. 4942, Industrial and Regional Development."

Mr. Peter Thomas

A wide range of the work of my Department, involving a large number of my officials, is directly or indirectly related to making Wales more attractive to industrial developers. The office will continue to be fully staffed to carry out the duties laid upon it.

Mr. Kinnock

Was not that a classic, fluffy parliamentary answer? Does not the Secretary of State recall that it is over a month since this very important White Paper was published, which at least gave the first breath of hope to the people of Wales since the present Government took office? Is it not time the Government girded up their loins and tried to introduce these improvements in regional policy, because there is great confusion and anxiety among industrial developers and it is costing Wales jobs?

Mr. Thomas

I am glad that the hon. Gentleman welcomes measures which were introduced. This will require legislation, as he knows, and it is not for me to say when legislation will be introduced.