asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received from district councils for an increase of their powers to enable them to promote the tourist trade; and, in particular, if he will bring advertising within their competence.

I know of the interest of district councils in tourism, and I have taken note of their desire to be given the powers to advertise the amenities of their areas and to make contributions towards overseas publicity that town councils have under the Health Resorts and Watering Places Act, 1936, and the Local Authorities (Publicity) Act, 1931.

As the right hon. Gentleman says that he has taken note of this, can he give an indication when he will take some action?

One of the problems, as the hon. Gentleman will realise, about taking action in matters like this is that legislation is involved and no one can say exactly how long even the most innocent Bill will take to get through the Scottish Committee.