HC Deb 21 February 1977 vol 926 cc1030-1
46. Sir Nigel Fisher

asked the Minister of Overseas Development if he has come to any conclusions about the future of the Directorate of Overseas Surveys at Tolworth.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Overseas Development (Mr. John Tomlinson)

Not yet, Sir. I shall, of course, inform the House as soon as a final decision has been reached, in accordance with my hon. Friend's precedessor's undertaking in the Adjournment debate on this subject on 17th November last.

Sir N. Fisher

I was going to refer to that because November 17th is quite a long time ago. Bearing in mind that the Minister then said, and I quote his words—

Mr. Speaker

Order. I reminded the House the other day that quotations at Question Time are not in order except from the Government Front Bench.

Sir N. Fisher

Will the hon. Gentleman take fully into account the Minister's assurance on 17th November that more precise information about the future of my constituents would be given as soon as possible? Will he also bear in mind that they are entitled to a more definitive statement than the Minister was then able to make? That was three months ago. When will the hon. Gentleman be able to make an announcement about this matter?

Mr. Tomlinson

I regret the delay and I do not underestimate the problems facing the staff of DOS and their families during this prolonged period of uncertainty. I repeat the undertaking that more information will be available as soon as all the considerations have been gone into. I recognise the special problems on both sides of the question. It is for that reason, and because the DOS is a difficult case, that we are taking another look at the position.

Mrs. Bain

Will the hon. Gentleman also bear in mind that there was great distress in my constituency following the debate on 17th November—

Mr. Speaker

Order. There is great distress in a lot of constituencies, but if we wander around all the constituencies we shall be in trouble.

Mrs. Bain

Will the hon. Gentleman also bear in mind when reviewing this question that the majority of cartographer jobs are often south of the border? Has he an innate belief that the people of Scotland cannot handle cartography?

Mr. Tomlinson

It is because this is a complex matter that all considerations will be taken into account before making a decision.

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