§ 46. Mr. Hector Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware of the damaging effect that the proposed discontinuation of the sea services between Aberdeen and England will have on the trade, industry, commerce and employment of north-east Scotland; and what plans Her Majesty's Government have to mitigate this damage.
§ Mr. NobleI understand the Aberdeen—London sea service is to be discontinued because there is insufficient demand to continue it on a commercial basis. I have consulted my right hon. Friends the President of the Board of Trade and the Minister of Labour and146W they do not expect that in these circumstances any damage to the economy of north-east Scotland will be caused by the discontinuance of the service.