HC Deb 29 June 1976 vol 914 cc71-2W
Mr. Wigley

asked the Lord President of the Council what powers the Government propose giving to the Welsh Assembly in relation to the activities of Wales Gas.

Mr. John Smith

As paragraph 252 of Cmnd 6348 makes clear, responsibility for the main nationalised industries is to remain with the Government. But it also states that there will be informal contacts between the industries and the Assembly on matters of joint interest, and that the Assembly will be able to make representations both to the gas industry and to Ministers.

Mr. Wigley

asked the Lord President of the Council what powers are proposed by the Government that the Welsh Assembly should assume over the Welsh Department of Agriculture.

Mr. John Smith

While certain agricultural matters will be transferred to the Welsh Assembly, the main agricultural functions will, as indicated in paragraph 280 of Cmnd 6348, become the responsibility of the Secretary of State for Wales.