HC Deb 09 January 1978 vol 941 cc1257-8
24. Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what arrangements he has to review the membership of the Welsh Development Agency.

The Under-Secretary of State for Wales (Mr. Alec Jones)

As with all appointments which my right hon. and learned Friend makes to public bodies, he will review the membership of the Agency in good time before the term of office of individual members expires.

Mr. Wigley

Is the Minister aware that whereas there is general satisfaction with the work being done on laud clearance by the Agency, and with its preparation of advance factories, there is considerable disappointment that it has initiated very little public enterprise or joint ventures? When it comes to the time to reappoint members or to appoint new members, will the Secretary of State bear that in mind and make appointments that can bring about a dynamic change in that direction?

Mr. Jones

In appointing new members, we shall take that and many other matters into consideration. One of the encouraging features is that the Agency is now investing at an average rate of about £200,000 a week.

Mr. Roy Hughes

Does my hon. Friend agree that Wales has suffered for long enough from Tory nominees on non-elected bodies, which have proliferated throughout Wales? Therefore, until the Welsh Assemebly is created, will he ensure that people appointed to such bodies are more representative of the people of Wales?

Mr. Jones

In appointing to the Welsh Development Agency, my right hon. and learned Friend is concerned that people should not be appointed as representatives of specific organisations but should be appointed in the light of their experience and ability. The experience and ability of members of the Agency have not been brought into question.

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