HC Deb 24 October 1973 vol 861 cc1238-9
10. Mr. David Steel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied with the co-ordination of those departments within the Scottish Office dealing with different aspects of regional development.

Mr. Gordon Campbell

There is very close co-ordination between these departments.

Mr. Steel

Will the Secretary of State look at this question again? Is he aware that several recent public spending decisions on education, sports facilities, housing and hospitals in my constituency lead me to the conclusion that the Government's commitment, which I accept, for economic development in the area is not being translated into practice by the departments concerned?

Mr. Campbell

I will, of course, be very glad to look into any examples which the hon. Gentleman can pass to me. But I think that, particularly now with the Scottish Economic Planning Board, the planning machinery started in the early 1960s has been adjusted and improved over the years.

Mr. John Smith

Is the Secretary of State aware that still no decision has been made on the future of the regional employment premium and that Scotland is in danger of losing £100 million as a result of the Government's proposal to withdraw it? Can he assure the House that he is fighting to retain the regional employment premium for Scotland?

Mr. Campbell

That is a completely different question which has been dealt with on previous occasions.

Mr. Ross

We have heard about various cuts. I think we have had two lots announced to us, some of which will apply to Scotland. May we be given a pledge that no project vital to Scotland's development will be cut or postponed?

Mr. Campbell

Yes.