HC Deb 24 February 1993 vol 219 cc640-1W
Mr. Salmond

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland (1) what consideration he has given to conferring next steps agency status on the marine laboratory in Aberdeen; and if he will make a statement;

(2) what consultations he has had with (a) staff, (b) the fishing industry, (c) local councils and (d) right hon. or hon. Members, regarding the possibility of conferring next steps agency status on the marine laboratory in Aberdeen; and if he will make a statement.

Sir Hector Monro

I refer the hon. Member to the written answer given by my right hon. Friend on 18 November 1992 at column 271, stating that the Scottish Office's fisheries research service (FRS) is being considered as a candidate for next steps agency status. The senior management of FRS are fully engaged in this consideration, and staff are being kept informed. The House will be informed of any final decision, in the normal way.