HC Deb 30 July 1981 vol 9 cc515-6W
Mr. Peter Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will list the various reports completed by the Economic Council; and how many of its recommendations he has implemented.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

The following reports have been completed by the Northern Ireland Economic Council since its reorganisation in 1977:

  • Representations to Government on some problems of Agriculture (February 1978).
  • Annual Statement of Work 1977–78 (September 1978).
  • Recommendations on Energy Policy in Northern Ireland (September 1978)
  • The Development of Horticulture in Northern Ireland—some comments by the Economic Council (January 1979).
  • Statement of views on Air Passenger Service (February 1979).
  • Statement of views on Sea Ferry Services (May 1979).
  • Economic and Social Progress in Northern Ireland: A response to the Government's Discussion Paper (June 1979).
  • Annual Report 1978–79 (September 1979).
  • Government Statement on Energy Policy in Northern Ireland: Comments by the Economic Council (September 1979).
  • The Availability, Supply and Development of Management for Industry and Commerce in Northern Ireland (November 1979).
  • The Clothing Industry in Northern Ireland (December 1979).
  • Industrial Development Policy (April 1980).
  • Energy Conservation (April 1980).
  • Unemployment in Northern Ireland 1974–1979 (September 1980).
  • Annual Report 1979–1980 (October 1980).
  • Further Study of Gas Pipeline (September 1980).
  • Advanced Technology (November 1980.)
  • Public Expenditure Comparisons between Northern Ireland and Great Britain (January 1981).
  • The Northern Ireland Construction Industry (March 1981).
  • Economic Assessment (April 1981).
  • Public Expenditure Priorities—Roads (April 1981).
  • Public Expenditure Priorities—Housing (May 1981).
  • Employment Patterns in Northern Ireland 1950–1980 (June 1981).

mortars, blast incendiaries, blast bombs, car bombs and incendiary devices were used by terrorists in 1980 in each Royal Ulster Constabulary division.

Mr. Alison

The information requested is as follows:

The Economic Council has a most useful role to play as a source of advice for the Government on the development of economic policy and monitoring of economic planning in Northern Ireland. Its reports are studied carefully. Both I and my team of Ministers always welcome the opportunity of discussions with the chairman and members of the council.

Within the constraints of public expenditure limits full cognisance is taken of the Northern Ireland Economic Council's reports in the evolution of policy.