HC Deb 08 June 1981 vol 6 cc27-8W
Mr. Biggs-Davison

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what progress has been made in reducing the number of departmental and non-departmental public bodies concerned with economic development in the Province; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Humphrey Atkins

The studies referred to in my reply to my hon. Friend the Member for Skipton (Mr. Watson) on 19 March—[Vol. 1, c.167]—which included a study of the departmental organisation required to deal more vigorously and effectively with economic development, have now been completed. I am at present assessing them and I shall make a further statement as soon as possible.