HC Deb 30 July 1975 vol 896 cc493-4W
35. Mr. Michael Clark Hutchison

asked the Lord President of the Council what estimates he has made of the cost of a Scottish Assembly.

Mr. Edward Short

It is not possible at this stage to make realistic estimates. But in formulating our devolution proposals we are very much concerned to secure an economical and efficient system of administration.

36. Mr. Reid

asked the Lord President of the Council what is his present policy towards the Scottish Assembly having its own Civil Service.

Mr. Edward Short

The administrative arrangements needed to support the Scottish Assembly cannot be settled until the constitutional framework and the functions to be devolved have been decided. Our detailed proposals will be set out in the autumn White Paper.