HC Deb 13 December 1960 vol 632 cc34-5W
80 and 82. Mr. Prentice

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department (1) whether, while he is awaiting the report of the Departmental Committee in Northern Ireland which was referred to in his recent talks with Lord Brookeborough, he will initiate immediate steps to help relieve the serious unemployment situation in Northern Ireland;

(2) whether he will introduce legislation in the current session to provide substantial help from the United Kingdom to relieve the serious unemployment position in Northern Ireland.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I prefer to take into account the concrete proposals of the Government of Northern Ireland in deciding what further steps it may be possible for Her Majesty's Government to take in this matter.

81. Mr. Jeger

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he has now received from the Prime Minister of Northern Ireland the concrete proposals designed to help to create further employment there.

Mr. R. A. Butler

I have met the Prime Minister of Northern Ireland and heard his views and I am now awaiting concrete proposals.

83. Sir D. Campbell

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department when he expects to receive the report of the Departmental Committee which is working out new proposals to alleviate unemployment in Northern Ireland.

Mr. R. A. Butler

A Departmental Committee appointed by the Northern Ireland Government must report to that Government. As far as the United Kingdom Government is concerned every effort will continue to be made to assist the situation.