§ Mr. John Ellisasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will make a statement on the setting up of a new Northern Ireland Economic Council.
§ Mr. MasonFollowing receipt of a report prepared by a working party chaired by Mr. John Waddell, C.B.E., which made recommendations to me about the setting up of a new Economic Council for Northern Ireland, I have had detailed discussions with both sides of industry. I hope very soon to be able to announce the full membership of the new council. It will be an independent body, whose principal function will be to advise on the Government's economic planning on Northern Ireland. One of its tasks will be to mount original studies on the economy. The council will help strengthen a partnership to which I attach very great importance, namely, that between the trade unions and employers' organisations in Northern Ireland and between them and the Government.
Unfortunately, I am not yet in a position to make a full announcement about the details of the new council. I hope very shortly to make such a statement and I will send copies of it to all interested parties. I am, however, pleased to report that Professor Carter, Vice-Chancellor of Lancaster University, has agreed to chair the council.