asked the Prime Minister how far he has ensured, since the creation of the Welsh Office, that the range of responsibilities for that Department is being extended so as to bring the Welsh Office into parity with the Scottish Office; and how far this process will be continued.

My aim is to ensure that the needs of Wales are met in as efficient and effective a manner as possible. The Government will continue to draw on all relevant experience, including that of Scotland, in pursuit of this aim.