§ 25. Mr. Anthony Stodartasked the Secretary of State for Scotland when the Government propose to start discussions with representatives of public opinion on further devolution; and with what bodies these discussions will take place.
§ Mr. William RossDiscussions on further devolution will be held in Scotland as soon as possible. As well as holding talks with the political parties, we intend to consult bodies representing important sectors of public opinion in Scotland.
§ Mr. StodartThere is a fair consensus, I think in all parties, that it might be a good thing for certain Scottish domestic legislation to be carried out by a body in Scotland, thus perhaps speeding up the process of legislation here, but will the right hon. Gentleman make it quite clear that, despite the Prime Minister's assurance yesterday that all bodies of opinion would be considered, total independence in such matters as foreign affairs and defence is absolutely out?
§ Mr. RossI think that my right hon. Friend made it clear yesterday that the question of separation was completely out.
§ Mr. GrimondDoes the fact that conversations are now being held by the Government mean that they are convinced that some form of devolution, though not independence, is necessary, or are they still waiting for Lord Crowther-Hunt to make up their minds for them?
§ Mr. RossThe right hon. Gentleman should have been here when we had further discussions about that. I quoted what was actually stated in the Kilbrandon Report, which was that the discussions were necessary so that there should be a formulation of narrower opinion in Scotland in relation to the objectives which the Kilbrandon Commission put forward.
§ Mr. Teddy TaylorDoes the right hon Gentleman envisage that part of the consultations he mentioned may be a debate of one day or two days in the Scottish Grand Committee?
§ Mr. RossYes, Sir. I hope that we shall have in the House more than one debate on the Kilbrandon Report