HC Deb 24 November 1975 vol 901 cc56-7W
42. Mr. Tim Renton

asked the Lord President of the Council whether, whilst preparing his devolution proposals, he has considered recommending changes in representation at Westminster.

Mr. Edward Short

This question has been considered. It is the Government's view, as stated in the September 1974 White Paper, that the present numbers of Scottish and Welsh Members of Parliament should be maintained.

45. Mr. George Gardiner

asked the Lord President of the Council whether he is formulating any proposals for the devolution of legislative power over domestic English matters to the English.

Mr. Edward Short

I would ask the hon. Member to await the forthcoming consultative document about regional arrangements in England.

46. Mr. Gwilym Roberts

asked the Lord President of the Council if he will make a policy statement in the light of the evidence supplied to him in the form of a BBC public opinion poll indicating that a majority of the people of Wales are opposed to any steps towards devolution.

Mr. Edward Short

No. I do not think that statements of Government policy should be based on opinion polls—particularly on a poll taken before the White Paper is published.