HC Deb 12 November 1973 vol 864 cc17-8
16. Mr. Michael Roberts

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what discussions he has had with the Cardiff City Council designed to ensure that adequate arrangements are made for reception of the civil servants to be transferred to the Cardiff area from the Ministry of Defence and the Companies Registry in London.

Mr. Peter Thomas

My Department is maintaining close contact with the city on all aspects of planned or possible dispersals of civil servants to the Cardiff area.

Mr. Roberts

Is my right hon. and learned Friend aware of the welcome given to the announcement about the Companies Registry being transferred to South Wales? Is he further aware that there will be grave disappointment if this is not followed by further announcements on the dispersal of civil servants to South Wales, because of the enormous potential in the area?

Mr. Peter Thomas

I am fully aware of the welcome that was given to that announcement. The Government are confident that the decision was a right one. I am also well aware of the attractions of the City of Cardiff in any dispersal policy and of the splendid job the city is doing in making these attractions known.

Mr. George Thomas

Is the Secretary of State aware that the people of Cardiff are somewhat perturbed at the delay in transferring these organisations? Is he further aware that these decisions were taken by his predecessor in 1969 and we expect him to show a little greater sense of urgency?

Mr. Peter Thomas

I cannot accept what the right hon. Gentleman says. Certainly the decision about the Companies Registry was taken by this Government.

Mr. Callaghan

The Secretary of State says that the decision was a right one. Has he studied the special pleading going on to prevent the transfer of the Companies Registry to Cardiff? Will he give the House an unqualified assurance that this transfer will take place?

Mr. Peter Thomas

I have studied the concern that has been expressed about the move from London of the Companies Registry office. That is why I said that the Government were confident that the decision was a right one.