HC Deb 07 June 1976 vol 912 cc528-9W
Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many members are on the board of the Scottish Development Agency; and what is a quorum for meetings.

Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

The agency has 11 members including the chairman and deputy chairman. As provided in paragraph 12 of Schedule I to the Scottish Development Agency Act 1975, determination of the quorum is a matter for the agency.

Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many local authorities or development corporations are now acting as agents for the Scottish Development Agency under Section 19 of the Scottish Development Agency Act.

Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

The appointment of local authorities and development corporations of new towns to act as agents for the agency within their areas is a matter for the agency. The Secretary of State is concerned only where it is proposed that a new town corporation should act out with its area. So far no corporation has sought the Secretary of State's consent to act as agent for the agency in this way.

Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the Scottish Development Agency has established committees as permitted by paragraph 15 of Schedule 1 to the Scottish Development Agency Act.

Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

As paragraph 15 of Schedule 1 to the Scottish Development Agency Act 1975 provides, the establishment of committees is a matter for the agency.

Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what are the estimated administrative costs of the Scottish Development Agency in the current financial year.

Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

I would refer the hon. Member to the figures published in Supply Estimates 1976–77 (Scottish Economic Planning Department, Class IV 17 Appendix II).

Mr. Sillars

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the current commitment of the Scottish Development Agency in the discharge of its function under Section 2(2)(a) of the Act.

Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

I have nothing to add to the answer I gave to the hon. Member on 20th May.—[Vol. 911, c.664–5.]