HC Deb 17 July 1997 vol 298 cc266-7W
Mr. Colvin

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the date of the Scottish Assembly referendum. [7662]

Mr. McLeish

The referendum on the establishment and tax-varying powers of a Scottish Parliament will be held by this Autumn. My noble Friend Lord Sewel gave an undertaking during Committee on the Referendums (Scotland and Wales) Bill in another place that the Government would announce the date of the referendum by Report. [House of Lords O.R. Volume 581 Number 25. Column 103]. On the currently envisaged timetable, the date will therefore be announced by 21 July.

Mr. Dalyell

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the Minister of State's meeting with Professor J.D. Percy and colleagues of the Accounts Commission on arrangements and responsibilities for a Scottish Parliament. [9109]

Mr. McLeish

I have agreed to meet with Professor Percy and the Accounts Commission but have yet to arrange a date.

Mr. Ernie Ross

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the date of the referendum to be held in Scotland on the establishment of a Scottish Parliament. [9825]

Mr. Dewar

Subject to the Referendums (Scotland and Wales) Bill receiving Royal Assent, the referendum on our proposals for a Scottish Parliament will be held on Thursday 11 September 1997.