Written Answers To Questions
Wednesday, 25th October, 1967
Scotland
Hunterston B Nuclear Generating Station (Employment)
13.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many jobs will be involved as a result of his decision to authorise the construction of Hunterston B nuclear generating station.
The number of men employed on site construction is expected to reach a maximum of 2,000 in about 3 years time. About 300 men will be permanently employed in running the completed station.
Royal Prerogative Of Mercy
14.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many exceptional circumstances justified the recommending of the royal prerogative of mercy in the years 1960, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1966 and to the nearest available date.
The number of occasions on which the royal prerogative of mercy was exercised in Scottish cases was as follows:—
| 1960 | … | … | 41 |
| 1961 | … | … | 33 |
| 1962 | … | … | 40 |
| 1963 | … | … | 50 |
| 1964 | … | … | 7 |
| 1965 | … | … | 7 |
| 1966 | … | … | 5 |
| 1967 (to 31st July) | … | … | 1 |
Highland Development Board (Commercial Undertakings)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland in how many instances since its establishment the Highland Development Board has advanced public funds to commercial undertakings which have subsequently gone into voluntary or involuntary liquidation or become insolvent; and if he will give details in each case.
I am informed by the Board that six businesses which it has assisted have subsequently gone into liquidation, or become insolvent, or have otherwise ceased to trade. In three of these cases however, the purpose of the Board's assistance was to maintain employment until longer term arrangements could be made. Details relating to individual firms are confidential.
Housing (Completions 1967)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many houses were completed in Scotland in the first nine months of 1967.
27,347.
Teachers
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what plans he now has to deal with the shortage of teachers in Scotland.
I shall continue to take all steps open to me to increase the supply of teachers, including expansion of the colleges of education, the fullest use of the Special Recruitment Scheme and the encouragement of married women to return to teaching.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will initiate an inquiry into the causes of teacher wastage in Scotland; and if he will make a statement.
The main losses to teaching are well enough known—age retirement and the resignation of women teachers to bring up their families. The computer-based system of teacher records now being set up will make a detailed analysis possible of these and other relevant factors.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what is the progress of teacher recruitment; and if he will make a statement.
Detailed figures of the numbers of serving teachers for the current session will be available about the end of the year. I expect them to show a further sizeable increase. I am glad to say that provisional figures from the colleges of education for this session show that the number of intending teachers starting courses of training is about 5,100 which is 700 more than the 1966 figure. There are increases in both graduates and non-graduates.
Local Authorities (Boundaries And Functions)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what progress he has made in reviewing the boundaries and functions of local authorities in Scotland.
It would not be appropriate for my right hon. Friend to make a review of this kind at a time when the Royal Commission on Local Government is at work.
Farm Improvement Scheme (Malpractices)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what precautions are taken by his Department to prevent malpractices under the Farm Improvement Scheme; how many applications for grant have been approved during the last three years; how many prosecutions have been initiated and how many convictions obtained.
All proposals are in-inspected by professional officers to see that the statutory conditions are fulfilled and the costs reasonable. Unless the work is to be done under standard costs, or by farm staff on a time and material basis, competitive tenders are usually required. Completed work is inspected before any claim is paid. During the three years to 30th September, 1967 a total of 16,193 applications have been approved. There have been no prosecutions.
Store Cattle (Prices)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied with the present level of prices for store stock; and if he will make a statement.
Prices realised so far at this year's autumn sales in Scottish store markets, particularly for sheep and weaned calves, have shown a considerable increase over corresponding prices last year and generally the tone of the store market has been much firmer.
Eggs (Producers' Prices)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied with the present level of returns to egg producers; and if he will make a statement.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the current price paid to egg producers.
I am aware of the disquiet felt by egg producers about the lower prices they have been receiving compared with a year ago. As was indicated by my right hon. Friend, the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food in the House on 26th July, following discussions on these and other related matters with the National Farmers' Unions and the Egg Marketing Board, we decided to set up a Reorganisation Commission to look into them. It is hoped that the Commission will complete its work early next year; its report will be considered urgently by the Government.
Beef (Producers' Prices)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is satisfied with the present level of returns to beef producers; and if he will make a statement.
We were concerned earlier this year about the fall in fat cattle prices, and to safeguard the interests of home beef producers my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food, announced in the House on 26th July that the system of abatements and supplements on fat cattle would be substantially modified.—[Vol. 751, c. 716–17.]
Fatstock Guarantee Scheme 1967–68
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he is aware that paragraph 10 of the Fatstock Guarantee Scheme 1967–68 is restricting the acceptance of fat cattle for subsidy; and if he will take steps to widen the definition for purposes of the Scheme.
We see no sufficient justification for making such a change.
Pipe Bands (Grants)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will seek to provide grants to pipe bands for the encouragement of piping and drumming, and for the provision of instruments and uniforms.
My right hon. Friend is giving a grant of £1,500 to the Scottish Pipe Band Association for the current year towards its administrative and coaching expenses. Education authorities and other local authorities have powers to give grants to individual pipe bands.
Fat Lamb (Producers' Prices)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on the current price paid to producers of fat lamb.
In recent months weekly average market prices for fat sheep for the U.K. as a whole have been generally below the level of a year ago, but average weekly returns including the effective rate of guarantee have been at about last year's level and in most weeks have equalled or exceeded the weekly standard price. The market has recently shown a firmer tone and an increase in prices.
Highland Transport Board
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what further consideration he has given to the recommendations of the Highland Transport Board; and if he will make a statement.
The comments which I have received on the Board's final report were generally favourable, and 56 of the 87 recommendations have been so far accepted by the Government. Three recommendations have been rejected, two do not call for action by the Government and the remainder are still under consideration. Following is a detailed statement of the action taken on each recommendation:
Action taken on the recommendations listed on pages 70–76 on the Final Report of the Highland Transport Board.
7.2–7.5 Accepted. The Board's earlier recommendations about proposed railway closures were accepted at the time. Some of the lines concerned are reviewed later in the report (7.31 to 7.34).
7.6 Accepted. I propose to ask education authorities to take into account the existing services of stage carriage operators when considering tenders for school contracts.
7.7 Accepted. I propose to write to education authorities encouraging them to permit fare-paying passengers to be carried on school buses, subject to the interests of the school children not being prejudiced.
7.8 Accepted. The bus operators' associations intend to draw the attention of their members to the recommendation that more and larger parcels should be carried over longer distances in buses.
7.9 Accepted. My right hon. Friend the Postmaster General has advised me that mail contracts in the Highlands and Islands are already awarded to stage carriage operators where practicable.
7.10 Accepted. My right hon. Friend the Postmaster General has agreed to carry passengers in specially constructed mail vehicles on a number of experimental routes in the U.K. So far no suitable route has been found in the Highlands and Islands.
7.11 Accepted in principle. Decisions of the Traffic Commissioners are already made in public and are usually reported in local newspapers and in trade journals. The Commissioners and their staff are in close touch with bus operators and make every effort to advise and help them on current problems.
7.12 Action by the Government would not be appropriate, but I understand that one bus operators association has recently reduced its subscription rates and I hope this will help to attract membership among rural operators.
7.13 Accepted. Proposals for assisting rural bus operators will be included in the Transport Bill which the Government intend to introduce to Parliament in the next session.
7.14 Accepted in principle. The possibilities of operating car pool schemes, under the auspices of local welfare authorities, to meet any special cases of hardship are being examined in consultation with the Ministry of Transport.
7.15 Accepted in principle. The Orkney Islands Shipping Company is making a detailed study of the proposal to introduce a vehicle ferry service to Rousay, Egilsay and Wyre and the County Council have put forward proposals for the terminals required.
7.16 Under consideration. It has not yet been established whether the sea service to Shapinsay requires assistance.
7.17 Accepted. Consent to the Caledonian Steam Packet Company proposals to transfer the Holy Loch Service to a private operator was withheld by my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport.
7.18 Rejected. The Caledonian Steam Packet Company have introduced a smaller and more suitable vessel of their own to the Holy Loch service.
7.19 Accepted. With the consent of my right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport, the Caledonian Steam Packet Company reduced the frequency of summer excursion sailings to Campbeltown, Inveraray and Tighnabruaich in 1965.
7.20 Accepted. A feasibility study of possible routes for operation by landing craft has been completed. Copies of the report have been sent to the local authorities concerned for comment.
7.21 Accepted. In view of the lack of traffic, the Glenfinnan-Acharacle service has been discontinued this winter. Consultations are taking place as to whether the service is required during the summer.
7.22 Accepted. MacBraynes are examining the possibility of economies on the Kyle-Toscaig ferry service.
7.23 Accepted. Cromarty Burgh Council have been invited to explore, with Invergordon Town Council and Ross and Cromarty County Council, the possibility of rationalising the Cromarty Firth ferry services.
7.24 Accepted. In the White Paper "British Waterways: Recreation and Amenity" (Cmnd. 3401) the Government have announced their intention to retain the Crinan and Caledonian canals as commercial waterways.
7.25 Accepted. The runways in Islay, Orkney and Shetland were lengthened sufficiently to allow B.E.A. to introduce Viscount services to Islay, Orkney and Shetland in 1966.
7.26 Not accepted at present. I am informed by my right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade that further lengthening of the runways in Islay, Orkney and Shetland will be considered by his Department if the need arises.
7.27 Accepted. The early-morning and late-evening services to and from Inverness and Wick were introduced by B.E.A. in April, 1967.
7.28 Accepted. The air service was introduced on 27th September to the islands of Sanday, Stronsay and North Ronaldsay. It will be extended to Westray and Papa Westray when additional work on the airstrips has been completed.
7.29 Accepted. The Army was prepared to construct an airstrip in the Fort William area this summer, but the County Council were unable to acquire the site and the project has been deferred.
7.31 Accepted. The Perth-Aviemore-Inverness, Inverness-Wick/Thurso, Crianlarich-Fort William and Crianlarich-Oban lines are included in those which the Government and British Railways Board have decided to retain and develop.
7.32 and 7.33 Accepted. The recommendations, that, when the roads to Kyle of Lochalsh and Mallaig have been sufficiently improved, consideration should be given as to whether the railway lines should be closed, are in accordance with the Government's and British Railway's policy. In the changing transport situation the future of these lines will be re-examined. The re-examination will take into account not only the progress of the road improvement schemes but also the impact that withdrawal of passenger services might have on the social and economic life of the Highlands.
7.34 Accepted. British Railways Board has examined the possibility of extending the freightliner system to Inverness and found that the traffic potential does not at present warrant the capital investment which would be involved.
7.35 Action by the Government would not be appropriate. Subject to the approval of the Traffic Commissioners, the introduction of long distance bus services in the Highlands and Islands is primarily a matter for the operators.
7.36–40 Under consideration. The Board's recommendations will be taken into account in the preparation of the future road programme, and consideration will be given to starting the schemes recommended as soon as possible.
7.41 Accepted. In general priority will be given to improving as great a mileage of Highland roads as possible with 18 foot carriageways (or where traffic is light, by 11 foot carriageways with passing places) before the widening of roads to 24 feet is considered.
7.42 Accepted. Consulting engineers are already employed on road and pier schemes where the staffs of local authorities cannot undertake the work.
7.43 Accepted. The introduction of vehicle ferries will be considered when future sea and ferry services are being planned.
7.44 to 7.46 Accepted. At my request the North of Scotland, Orkney and Shetland Shipping Company have invited a private consultant to advise on future plans for serving Orkney and Shetland.
7.47 and 7.49 Accepted in principle. The proposal to serve the North Isles of Shetland by vehicle ferries will be implemented when finance is available.
7.48 Under consideration. The most appropriate operator for the service to the North Isles of Shetland will be discussed with the County Council and others concerned.
7.50 Accepted. The Orkney Islands Shipping Company have found that the introduction of a drive-on vehicle ferry service to the North Isles of Orkney would be impracticable; the new cargo ship which is now being designed to serve these islands will be able to carry vehicles.
7.51 Under consideration. The transport system for the South Isles of Orkney will be further examined in consultation with the interests concerned.
7.52 Accepted. The new cargo ship being designed for the North Isles of Orkney will also be able to serve the South Isles.
7.53 Under consideration. The future of the sea service to Stornoway is being studied in consultation with the Highlands and Islands Development Board.
7.54 Accepted in principle. A major vehicle ferry vessel to replace the "Claymore" service is being considered with other services which are being examined by MacBraynes.
7.55 Rejected. The cost of piers for a Norwegian type vehicle ferry from Mallaig to Armadale would be too expensive. The possibility of using a smaller vessel on this service is being studied by MacBraynes.
7.56, 7.57 and 7.58 Under consideration. The recommendations that the "Clansman" should augment the Lochmaddy-Uig service, that a Norwegian type vehicle ferry vessel should operate the Oban-Mull service and that Coll and Tiree should continue to be served from Oban are being considered by MacBraynes along with other shipping services to the Western Isles.
7.59 Rejected. Caledonian Steam Packet Company have already introduced a smaller vessel on the Holy Loch services. MacBraynes are however considering the Small Isles service along with other services in the area.
7.60 Accepted. MacBraynes are examining possible improvements in their cargo service.
7.61–7.63 Under consideration. I hope to announce shortly my decision on the future sea services to Islay, Jura, Colonsay and Gigha.
7.64 and 7.65 Under consideration. MacBraynes are considering the future of their Ardrishaig mail service and I shall study their proposals in due course in consultation with the interests concerned.
7.66 Under consideration. Measures for the safety of small vessels plying for hire or reward and carrying 12 or fewer passengers are under discussion between my right hon. Friend, the President of the Board of Trade and local licensing authorities. The Board of Trade do not consider it would be practical for the Board themselves to introduce and enforce a system of survey and certification of every vessel carrying passengers comparable with the existing statutory arrangements for survey and certification of those which carry more than 12 passengers.
7.67 Accepted. I shall arrange for the completion of the study begun by the Board of the administrative provisions governing the regulation and control of ferries.
7.68 Accepted. I have arranged that responsibility for providing ferry operators and local authorities with up-to-date information and advice about ferry vessels and terminals should be exercised by the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for Scotland.
7.69 Accepted. It is my intention that the need for those ferries which are financially supported either by local authorities or central Government Departments should be reviewed regularly.
7.70 Accepted. The Agricultural Departments are at present engaged in a comprehensive review of all Animal Health Orders governing the transport of horses and farm animals by road, rail and sea. It is proposed to provide, in a new Order, for the carriage of animals on suitable floats aboard vessels subject to any safeguards necessary to protect the animals from injury or unnecessary suffering.
7.71 Accepted. I have asked the Highlands and Islands Development Board to consult the Caledonian Steam Packet Company about the future development of the ferry service at Kyle of Lochalsh, in conjunction with the County Councils of Ross and Cromarty and Inverness.
7.72, 7.73 and 7.74 Under Consideration. The proposals to introduce small vehicle ferry services to certain islands in the Hebrides are still under discussion with MacBraynes and the local authorities concerned.
7.75 Accepted. Assistance to transport piers in the Highlands will be concentrated on vehicle ferry terminals, but account will also be taken of the needs of other vessels.
7.76 Accepted. The normal rate of grant for transport piers will continue to be 75 per cent
7.77 Accepted. I propose to ask harbour authorities in the Highlands to review the need for improvement of the ancillary facilities on existing piers.
7.78 Accepted. I have arranged for a review of legislation affecting transport piers in the Highlands to be carried out by my Department.
7.79 Under consideration. Legislation would be necessary to extend to £100,000 the present limit of £25,000 within which I may authorise pier and harbour works.
7.80 Accepted in part. My right hon. Friend the President of the Board of Trade informs me that a programme of airstrip construction has been drawn up for the Royal Engineers; subject to commitments elsewhere, it is hoped to undertake one major project each year. So far as financial aid is concerned, any application by a local authority for assistance towards the cost of airstrip construction will be considered on its merits; the Government's policy is set out in the White Paper "Civil Aerodromes and Air Navigational Services" (Cmnd. 1457).
7.81 Accepted. The Transport Committee of the Scottish Economic Planning Council have asked the Highlands and Islands Development Board to deal with the co-ordination of passenger transport services in the area, and the Board have set up a committee of transport operators.
7.82 Accepted. Detailed arrangements for meeting the special needs of the Highlands and Islands will be a matter for the proposed new national freight organisation when it is set up.
7.83 Under consideration. I am considering the arrangements for handling complaints about sea services.
7.84 and 7.85 Under consideration. A detailed study is being made by my Departments of the relationship of sea transport charges to the islands with the charges borne by communities in the distant parts of the mainland.
7.86 Under consideration. The question of incentives to subsidised operators of sea services will be examined when any of the existing agreements becomes due for review.
7.87 Accepted. Capital grants or loans are already given to ferry operators when necessary.
7.88 Accepted in principle. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Transport and I are giving further consideration to the detailed arrangements for ensuring that, in general, Exchequer assistance to local ferries should be conditional on a contribution being made by the local authorities.
7.89 Accepted. I look for advice on Highland transport questions to the Highlands and Islands Development Board and where appropriate to the Scottish Economic Planning Council.
Emigration
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what steps he is now taking to reduce emigration from Scotland.
The Government are continuing to encourage the modernisation and extension of Scotland's economic base and the improvement of the social environment. The regional employment premium will also be a benefit. These measures will make Scotland more attractive and help to reduce emigration.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will obtain an interim report from the Registrar General for Scotland on the level of emigration in 1966–67.
I would refer the hon. Member to the Answer given today to the hon. Member for North Angus and Mearns (Mr. Buchanan-Smith).
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will bring up to date the projections contained in Table 5 of Command Paper No. 2864, The Scottish Economy: A Plan for Expansion, in the light of the actual levels if immigration from Scotland between 1964 and the latest available date.
No. These statistical projections were intended to illustrate what would happen on certain alternative assumptions about net emigration over periods up to 1970 and 1980. It would be premature to revise them on the basis of less than two years experience since the Scottish Plan was published and before the Government's regional policies have had time to take effect.
Civil Defence
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if the reorganisation of Civil Defence in Scotland was completed by 30th September; and if he will make a statement.
The reorganisation of the Civil Defence Corps, which I had asked local authorities to aim at by 30th September, was completed by mid-October. Work is continuing on other aspects of the reorganisation of local authority civil defence, and I should like to pay tribute to the spirit in which this task is being tackled.
Countryside Commission (Headquarters)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland where the headquarters of the Countryside Commission will be established.
My right hon. Friend must consult the Commission about this, when it has been appointed.
Hill Sheep Farmers (Income)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what recent study he has made of the income received by hill sheep farmers; and if he will make a statement.
We are currently collecting data to assess the situation arising from the disposal of the 1967 lamb crop as we did a year ago. This information will be considered, together with other data bearing on the economic conditions and prospects of the agricultural industry, at the forthcoming Annual Review.
Sugar Beet (Acreage)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what acreage of sugar beet was sown this year; and what estimate he has made of the acreage likely to be sown next year.
6,783 acres were sown this year. It is too early to make a worthwhile estimate of next year's acreage.
Primary Schools (Part-Time Education)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many primary schoolchildren are receiving part-time education this term.
The latest figure is 1,677.
Tourist Industry
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what study he has made of the tourist industry trade this summer; and if he will make a statement.
From inquiries which my right hon. Friend has made I expect that when statistics are available they will show that the general level of tourist activity in 1967 did not differ much from that in 1966, which was a good year.
New School Places
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many new school places will be approved this year.
Over 50,000 new school places are expected to be approved in 1967.
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many extra secondary school places will be provided by 1970–71.
Well over 100,000 new secondary school places will be provided between now and the beginning of session 1970–71. These cannot yet be apportioned between extra places and those in replacement of existing unsatisfactory buildings.
Prescription Charges (Abolition Cost)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what has been the total cost of the abolition of prescription charges in Scotland.
The abolition of prescription charges is only one of many factors affecting the cost of pharmaceutical services and it is not possible to make a reliable estimate of its effect.
Meat And Livestock Commission (Headquarters)
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will establish the headquarters of the Meat and Livestock Commission in Scotland.
My right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and I will consider the matter when we have the views of the Commission.
New Scientific And Technological Library
asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will establish a new scientific and technological library at a suitable place in the central industrial belt.
My Department is currently examining the need for provision of this sort in consultation with the other Departments concerned.
Perth City By-Pass
asked the Secretary of state for Scotland when the Perth city by-pass will be started and completed.
I expect that the southern by-pass will be started by the early 1970s. My right hon. Friend has invited Perth County Council and consulting engineers to prepare schemes for the two sections of the southern by-pass so that there will be no delay when funds can be allocated for the project.
Ministry Of Defence
Defence Cuts
41.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress is being made with the cuts announced in the Defence White Paper in July; and if he will make a statement.
The work is going on with all speed, and in accordance with the timetable in the White Paper. I see no need for a statement at this stage.
Firing Range, Shoeburyness
43.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what are his plans for closing the firing range at Shoeburyness.
I have no plans for closing the Firing Range at Shoeburyness.
British Army (Unit Reductions)
45.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence by how many further major combatant units he anticipates the Army will be reduced between 1970–71 and 1975–76.
I have nothing to add yet to the Supplementary Statement on Defence Policy 1967 (Cmnd. 3357).
F111 Aircraft
46.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what supplementary ceiling price he has now agreed for the F111K aircraft.
1·2 million dollars (£430,000).
52.
asked the Minister of Defence how plans to purchase F111 planes from the United States of America will be affected by the recent amendment to the American Foreign Aid Bill designed to ban long-term credit arms dealing between the United States of America and countries trading with North Vietnam.
I understand that various amendments to the Foreign Assistance Bill are being considered by the Congress. It would not be proper for me to comment on the likelihood of their adoption but so far as our purchase of military equipment is concerned I cannot believe that the arrangements we have entered into with the U.S. Administration will not be honoured.
62.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what action he is taking to ensure that the dollar cost of the F111K aircraft is offset by purchases by the United States of America of British equipment.
There is a continuing drive to sell British defence equipment in the United States with most satisfactory results.
Unison 67
48.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what Commonwealth Governments were invited to send representatives to Exercise Unison.
Representatives of ail Commonwealth countries which maintain diplomatic relations with Her Majesty's Government and which possess defence forces of significant size were invited to Unison 67.The list of the countries invited is as follows:
| Canada. | Jamaica. |
| Australia. | Trinidad & Tobago. |
| New Zealand. | Uganda. |
| India. | Kenya. |
| Pakistan. | Malawi. |
| Ceylon. | Zambia. |
| Ghana. | Malta. |
| Malaysia. | Singapore. |
| Nigeria. | Guyana. |
| Sierra Leone. | Barbados. |
Mozambique Channel (British Naval Patrols)
47.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what patrolling of the Mozambique Channel is still being undertaken by British ships and aircraft; what British naval and air establishments are now in the Malagasy Republic; what is the cost to date to public funds of such patrolling; and what contribution to this expense is being made by other United Nations member states applying, and supporting, sanctions against Rhodesia.
Frigates of the Royal Navy supported by Royal Fleet Auxiliaries and assisted by a small detachment of R.A.F. Shackleton aircraft have continued to patrol in the Mozambique Channel. There is no British naval establishment in the Malagasy Republic but the Shackleton detachment operates from there. The additional cost to public funds of maintaining these patrols from their inception to the end of last month is about £825,000. No contribution to these costs is made by any other country.
Royal Navy (Members Of Parliament)
49.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether the service records or parts of the service records of members of the House of Commons who have at some time served in the Royal Navy have been shown to persons or authorities outside his Department, by whom they were seen and for what reason.
No.
British Regimental Uniforms (Overseas Exhibitions)
50.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what steps he will take to ensure that when the uniforms of famous British regiments are used for exhibition purposes abroad they will be worn by members of the regiments concerned.
The only persons who may wear British regimental uniforms at overseas exhibitions are members of the regiments concerned. This is generally understood by the organisers of such exhibitions.If serving soldiers are not available, uniforms are usually displayed on dummies.
Anglo-American Offset Agreement
51.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what firm contracts for British military equipment have been made by the American Government to offset the cost of F111 aircraft purchases.
Orders worth $135·5 million have been received under the offset agreement from the United States Department of Defense and from U.S. contractors.
Durham Light Infantry
53.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what representations he has received protesting against his decision to disband the Durham Light Infantry as a separate regiment of the Army.
I have received six letters.
Hm Dockyards
55.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what proportion of new naval construction during the next five years will be undertaken by naval dockyards, and what proportion by civil dockyards.
I cannot make such a forecast. The amount of naval new construction awarded to the naval dockyards depends upon a variety of factors, including their repair and refitting load and the availability of suitable labour at the time.
56.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what action he is taking to ensure that more outside work, particularly on behalf of nationalised industries, will be undertaken at naval dockyards.
The dockyards already accept outside work when they have the capacity and facilities to do so.I am afraid that we could not justify the heavy capital expenditure needed for any significant increase in the amount of outside work already in hand.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the official establishment strength of draughtsmen and T.G.3 personnel at Her Majesty's Dockyard, Portsmouth; how many vacancies in these categories are at present unfilled; and what is the number of temporary unqualified personnel at present filling such posts.
The establishment strength of draughtsmen and T.G.IIIs is 201 and 336 respectively: of these posts, two for draughtsmen and eight for T.G.IIIs are vacant but are in process of being filled. The present numbers of temporary unqualified staff filling draughtsman and T.G.III posts are 34 and 149 respectively.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what he estimates to be the difference in income for all categories of Her Majesty's Dockyard personnel covered by the new wages structure if such incomes were based on take-home pay rather than on basic pay in outside industry.
The new wage rates in Her Majesty's Dockyards were not based on basic pay in outside industry but on the earnings for a 40 hour week as recommended in the National Board for Prices and Incomes Report No. 18.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what studies he is undertaking of possible methods for improved workers participation in management of Her Majesty's Dockyards.
Workers already participate in the management of Her Majesty's Dockyards through the medium of Trades Councils, Whitley Committees and Joint Production Committees. We try to make the work of these bodies as constructive as possible.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what action he is taking to implement the recommendations of the National Board for Prices and Incomes concerning the present gap between the status of industrial and non-industrial workers in Her Majesty's Dockyards.
This was a long term recommendation applicable to the whole of the Civil Service and not merely to Her Majesty's Dockyards. It involves fundamental issues and early progress is not to be expected.
Armed Services (Civil Personnel)
54.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what the present position is regarding the training of civil personnel in Army, Navy and Air Force establishments in this country.
Spare capacity is limited, but 36 places in general fitting and other skills have been provided at H.M.S. Fisgard, Cornwall, and 50 at R.A.F., St. Athan, near Cardiff.
Aldabra Island
57.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he has yet reached a decision on the proposal to use the island of Aldabra for defence purposes; and if he will take steps to preserve the wild life of the island.
I have nothing to add to the reply which I gave to the hon. Members for Lewes (Sir T. Beamish), Devon, North (Mr. Thorpe), and Cirencester and Tewkesbury (Mr. Ridley) on 5th July.—[Vol. 749, c. 1791–2.]
Aircraft Carrier "Leviathan"
58.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what works have been carried out on the uncompleted aircraft carrier "Leviathan" since 1st October, 1964; for what purposes; with what effect; and what are the present state of this vessel and the future utilisation.
Boilers and ancillary machinery from "Leviathan" have been sold to the Royal Netherlands Navy, and some material and stores have been removed for use by the Royal Navy. The ship is now lying in an unmaintained state at Fareham Lake and she will be scrapped next spring unless a firm and acceptable offer to purchase her is made in the meantime.
Sterling Engineering Company
59.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what action his Department has taken to assist Messrs. Sterling to obtain contracts in order to establish themselves as the second source of supply for the United States Army; and what instructions were given to Great Britain's representatives in Washington and New York regarding Major Robert Turp's recent visit to Rock Island Arsenal, Illinois.
We have given and will give the Sterling Engineering Company all the assistance practicable but the item which they wished to tender for on this occasion is one which is specifically restricted to U.S. industry. Major Turp was told this before he left for the United States. The Consulate General in New York and the Embassy in Washington were informed of his visit and were instructed to give him whatever assistance was possible in the circumstances.
Unidentified Flying Objects
60.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence how many reports he has received in the last six months of the sightings of unidentified flying objects; what were the results of his investigations; and if he will make a statement.
153 reports have been received in the Ministry of Defence in the last six months. Some of these are still being investigated, but commonplace explanations have been found for the rest.
Staff College (Entry Opportunities)
asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he is aware that officers on active service abroad do not have the same facilities for study and courses prior to taking the examination for entry to the Staff College; and what steps he is taking to see that such officers' chances are not jeopardised by their services abroad.
I recognise the difficulty. but I think that the arrangements outlined in my Answer to the hon. Member's Question of 28th June go as far as is practicable to meet it.—[Vol. 749, 91–2.]
British Forces, Germany
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the estimated budgetary saving in a full year at 1964 prices through the forthcoming withdrawal of a brigade and an air force squadron from Germany.
Budgetary savings stemming from the withdrawal of a brigade and an air force squadron from Germany will, after the redeployment has been completed, amount to about £0·4 million annually.
Guardsmen (Vice Ring)
asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on his inquiry into the corruption of young Guardsmen by a well-to-do vice ring promoting homosexuality in the Household Cavalry and the Welsh Guards; and what action he is proposing to take.
The inquiry is being conducted by the Metropolitan Police with assistance from the Army; it is too early to say what action may result.
Jerusalem War Cemetery
asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether representatives of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission have visited the Jerusalem War Cemetery on Mount Scopus since the Arab-Israeli war; and whether he will make a statement.
Representatives of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission have visited Jerusalem War Cemetery, Mount Scopus, on several occasions since the Arab-Israeli war and have reported that the cemetery suffered no damage. I would also refer the hon. Member to my reply to the hon. Member for Blackpool, South (Mr. Blaker) yesterday.—[Vol. 751, c. 454.]
Maidstone Air Training Corps Band (Labour Party Fete)
asked the Secretary of State for Defence why the Maidstone Air Training Corps band took part in a Labour party fete at East Malling; what assurances were previously given to the commanding officer about the non-political nature of the function; and what inquiries his department has made as to why these assurances were breached.
The Band of No. 40F (Maidstone) Squadron played at this fete in error. Regulations forbid A.T.C. Units to take part in the affairs of any political of organisation or party. The Squadron was aware that the fete was organised by East Malling local Labour Party but had obtained assurances from the organisers that the purpose of the fete was to be sport and entertainment and that it had no political significance.
Arms (Overseas Sales)
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what have been the total values of private and governmental arms sales abroad in each of the last three years.
The value of defence exports was £121 million in 1964, £120 million in 1965, and £152 million in 1966.
Raf Brize Norton (Flights Over Oxford)
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what action he is taking to prevent the flight of aircraft from Brize Norton Airfield over Oxford, especially at night.
R.A.F. Brize Norton is the main base for the R.A.F. strategic transport force. Although these aircraft avoid Oxford as much as possible, in order to make a safe approach they must normally pass over the western outskirts. A study is in hand to determine whether their height at this point can safely be increased. Some night flying is essential, but every effort is made to complete such flights as early as operational and training requirements permit. I am writing to the hon. Member.
Hms "Caprice"
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what is the reason for, and the extent of the delay in, the completion of repairs to H.M.S. "Caprice" and her despatch on foreign service.
Repairs to H.M.S. "Caprice's" machinery system were completed as scheduled in July. Defects in other equipments arose during the subsequent sea trials and these have now been put right. H.M.S. "Caprice" rejoined the Western Fleet on 16th September and is available for service where required.
British Army (Civilian Projects)
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what progress has been made in the use of the army personnel on civilian development projects; and to what extent the trade unions have been consulted.
The study of the extension of military aid to the civil community mentioned in February's Statement on the Defence Estimates is well advanced. Interested parties outside Government, including the T.U.C., will be consulted before any final decisions are taken.
Armed Services (Young Recruits)
asked the Secretary of State for Defence when he expects to announce his policy concerning the recruitment and discharge of youth in the services, following his examination of the Latey Committee report; and whether he will make a statement.
I regret that I cannot yet make a statement as I had originally hoped. I am still considering this and will announce my conclusions as soon as possible.
Ss "Richard Montgomery"
asked the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on the result of the inquiries of the United States Maritime Administration regarding the cargo of s.s. "Richard Montgomery" lying sunk in the Medway since the war.
The report received from the United States Department of the Army is still under consideration. A statement on it will be made in due course.
asked the Secretary of State for Defence what estimate he has made of damage that would result from the inadvertent detoration of the cargo of the s.s. "Richard Montgomery".
There have been two previous assessments of risk: the latter specifically concluded that the spontaneous and complete detonation of the ammunition remaining in the wreck is improbable. In, however, the unlikely event of such a detonation occurring there would over a radius of two miles be structural damage including some cracking of secure walls and some collapse of insecure ones. Outside this radius minor damage could occur.
Transport
Public Transport (Children's Concessionary Fares)
65.
asked the Minister of Transport what steps she will take to assist public transport operators to offer half fares to all children under the school leaving age.
I would refer my hon. Friend to the Answer given to the hon. Member for Birmingham, Edgbaston on 7th June.—[Vol. 747, c. 207.]
Driving Licences (Review)
63.
asked the Minister of Transport if she has yet completed her review concerning the law governing the issue of a driving licence to a person who has a had a medical history of epilepsy.
We are making good progress in this review and my right hon. Friend hopes to make an announcement soon.
Trolley-Bus Depots
66.
asked the Minister of Transport how many former trolley-bus depots in London are unlet or unsold.
I am informed by London Transport that the number is 25. They are all being used by the Board for other purposes.
Unlicensed Motor Vehicles (Traffic Wardens)
67.
asked the Minister of Transport if she will introduce legislation to give to traffic wardens the duty of reporting to local authorities the registration numbers of vehicles parked on the highway not bearing a current and valid registration licence.
As my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary and I have already announced we propose that the powers and functions of traffic wardens should be extended. This extension would cover the reporting of apparent vehicle excise offences. I hope to introduce a Transport Bill in the coming session, which would include this.
Ice Cream Vans (Accidents)
72.
asked the Minister of Transport if she will consider amending the regulations governing the sale of ice-cream from parked vehicles.
I appreciate that there has been a disturbing number of accidents to children near ice-cream vans, but it is doubtful whether the problem can be solved by legislation. The real answer lies in road safety education, both for children and parents, and we are now intensifying our efforts in this direction. In any case, under Section 16 of the Road Traffic Act, 1960, it is an offence to stop a vehicle in a dangerous place on the road.
Motor Vehicles (Safety Standards)
73.
asked the Minister of Transport whether she will take steps to require safety standards in British cars at least as high as those now required by the United States Government, details of which have been sent to her.
Yes. We are pressing ahead with the proposals for progressively raising safety standards and securing greater uniformity on them internationally which were outlined in the recent White Paper "Road Safety—A Fresh Approach".
Hovercraft (England-Northern Ireland Service)
74.
asked the Minister of Transport what plans the Government has to initiate a hovercraft service between England and Northern Ireland.
The Government have no such plans. The initiative in these matters must rest with those who propose to operate the service.
Roads
Crash Barriers
64.
asked the Minister of Transport what steps she is taking to ensure the erection of sightly crash barrier fencing between the carriageways of motorways.
We are considering the recommendations about safety fences on motorways contained in the twelfth report from the Estimates Committee, and my right hon. Friend hopes to make a statement shortly.
M1 (Solus Filling Station)
68.
asked the Minister of Transport why she has invited tenders for a Solus filling station at Woolley Edge on the M1 in contravention of Government undertakings that such service areas should always sell more than one maker's brand of petrol.
The essential feature of our policy is to provide a fair choice of different brands of fuel on any major motorway. No tenders were received in response to invitations issued on the normal "multi-brand" basis for the Woolley Edge service area, which will serve the northern 38 miles of M1. In order to attract tenders from a wider field of firms interested primarily in providing essential basic fuel and breakdown facilities, it is necessary to permit Solus operation on this site. A choice of eleven brands will be available at seven other sites on this motorway.
Preston By-Pass (Link With M6)
69.
asked the Minister of Transport whether she will now announce the date for inclusion in the motorways programme of the Preston Northerly by-pass link with the M6 motorway.
No; we are, however, aware of the importance attached to this scheme by the local authorities concerned and we are giving it consideration for future inclusion in the preparation pool.
Traffic Census
70.
asked the Minister of Transport if she will institute road traffic census procedures on all motorways and other principal roads for the purpose of comparing the volumes of traffic during peak and off-peak periods.
Traffic censuses on trunk roads and motorways have been taken periodically for many years. The last such census was in 1965.A fresh census on motorways and trunk roads and on the new system of principal roads is being planned.
Mechanical Traffic Recorders (Reading)
71.
asked the Minister of Transport on how many roads leading to the borough of Reading are mechanical traffic recorders in operation; and if she will place them on all remaining roads.
There are no mechanical traffic recorders installed permanently on any of the roads leading to the Borough of Reading. Two portable counters are currently being used by the Borough and the Traffic Advisory Unit of the Ministry will shortly be using others. It is not necessary to have permanent recorders on all roads.
Humber Bridge
75.
asked the Minister of Transport when it is her intention to make a statement about the building of the Humber Bridge.
As my right hon. Friend said in reply to the hon. Members for Haltemprice (Mr. Wall) and Louth (Sir C. Osborne) on 7th June, a decision about building a Humber Bridge is dependent upon the outcome of current planning studies on the possible development of Humberside.—[Vol. 747, c. 1049–50.]
A30 (London Airport Freight Terminal)
asked the Minister of Transport what plans she has in mind at present to carry out improvements of the A30 which would be necessary to serve the new freight terminal for London Airport which is due to be completed by 1969.
The junction of Stan-well Road, the main access road to the new freight terminal, and the Great South West Trunk Road, A30, will be improved by widenings on both roads.The completion of the M3 in the early seventies will relieve the A30 and enable it to accommodate future traffic increases.
Airport Road Links
asked the Minister of Transport whether she is aware that the British Airport Authority is now considering the possible future development of a special airport primarily devoted to air cargo in connection with which external road links will be of paramount significance; and whether she will make a statement with regard to the development of this plan.
The British Airports Authority has established a study group, on which both this Department and the Board of Trade are represented, to consider whether an all-cargo airport may be desirable in principle. If such an airport were established, it would, wherever it was sited, clearly require adequate road access.
M1 (Lighting)
asked the Minister of Transport what form of lighting will be used on the Tinsley viaduct section of the M1; whether the use of headlights will be allowed; and what study is being made of the effects of the road lighting and vehicle lights on the residential areas of Sheffield within two miles of the viaduct.
Lighting will not be provided on the motorway upper deck section of the Viaduct. This is in accordance with general motorway policy. The normal use of headlights will consequentially be allowed. Lighting to the appropriate standard is being provided on the lower deck trunk road section and on the roundabouts at either end.We have no proposals for a study of the effects of lighting on the surrounding areas.
Thorne By-Pass
asked the Minister of Transport when the scheme for the Thorne by-pass will be published.
We expect to publish the draft scheme in Mid-November.
Swing Bridge, Thorne
asked the Minister of Transport whether she has studied the two types of new speedy-construction bridges being produced by the Armoured Fighting Vehicle Experimental Establishment; and whether she will consider one of these for replacing the one-way swing bridge over the canal at Thorne.
We have studied these two types of expensive special purpose bridges. These are not expected to become available until late 1968 and offer no advantages for this particular site over the temporary bridge we are currently examining.
M5 (Oldbury-Great Barr Section)
asked the Minister of Transport if, in view of the statement made on 27th January, 1967 that the completion date for the Oldbury to Great Barr section of M5 was 1969, she will give an assurance that it will not be later than the revised date of spring 1970 given on 31st May, 1967.
The target completion date for the section between Oldbury and the A41 remains spring of 1970, and for that between A41 and Great Barr the end of 1969. Progress so far indicates that these targets are realistic.
A45 (Speed Limit)
asked the Minister of Transport how the effect of the 60 mile per hour limit introduced for 12 months as from 18th October, 1967 on a length of A45 will be accurately assessed, in view of the physical alterations made to the road layout in the 12 months ended 17th October, 1967.
Close observation and analysis of individual accidents should enable the particular contribution of the limit to be fairly assessed. In a comprehensive scheme like this the effects of one measure may partly mask those of another but this is not a reason for delaying action that we believe will save lives and casualties.
A316 (Footbridge)
asked the Minister of Transport when consideration will be given to providing a footbridge over the A316, near the Winning Post public house.
This is a matter initially for the Greater London Council as highway authority. I understand that the Council are formulating proposals for a footbridge at this point. We will consider such an application if and when it is submitted to us.
New Construction And Improvement (Expenditure)
asked the Minister of Transport if she will announce the proposed level of expenditure on the construction and improvement of roads in England from 1970 to 1971.
Yes. Exchequer expenditure on new road construction and improvement in England is expected to rise to over £280 million in 1970–71. Together with expenditure by local authorities, total public investment on the English road programme in 1970–71 will be of the order of £320 million.The new figures take account of the effect of the new principal road grant structure and the redefinition of improvements and also of the increase in the cost of road construction since the last announcement was made.
Ports
Tyne
76.
asked the Minister of Transport whether she has received proposals for the future of the Tyne from the appropriate authority.
My right hon. Friend is considering a harbour reorganisation scheme submitted to her by the National Ports Council to bring the Tyne ports under unified administration, but we have received no proposals for major physical development.
Railways
Oxford Station (Closure)
asked the Minister of Transport what action she proposes to take as a result of the findings of the inquiry of the Transport Users' Consultative Committee concerning the closure of the down-side entrance to Oxford Station.
At its meeting on 3rd October the Central Transport Consultative Committee considered the East Midland Area Transport Users' Consultative Committee report on the closure of the down-side entrance to Oxford Station. The Central Committee concluded that only a limited degree of actual hardship or inconvenience was likely to arise, and that they would not be justified in endorsing the Area Committee's recommendation that the Railways Board should be asked to restore the facilities which existed before the closure took place on 5th December, 1966. In view of this conclusion we do not propose to take any further action.
Aviation
Aldergrove Airport (Jet Aircraft)
77.
asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the number of landings by jet aircraft on the cross runway at Aldergrove Airport in County Antrim to date; and what complaints have been received about the insufficient safety margin on this runway for such aircraft.
During the period 1st August, 1966 to 30th September, 1967, 196 landings were made by civil jet aircraft on the subsidiary runway at Belfast (Aldergrove) Airport. There have been no complaints about the inadequacy of this runway for such aircraft.
Pilots (Hourly Rates And Earnings)
asked the President of the Board of Trade what is the expected change in hourly rates and earnings of airline pilots following the recent regulations on maximum permitted monthly flying hours.
Since the number of hours flown by most pilots was already within the new limits introduced by the recent regulations it is not to be expected that there will be any general effect on pilots' remuneration which, of course, is a matter between them and the airlines.
Munich Air Disaster (Inquiry)
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether the second German inquiry into the Munich air disaster has yet been concluded; if the investigation carried out by his own experts is now available; and whether both reports have come to the same conclusion that the accident was caused by slush on the runway.
The report of the German inquiry and the memorandum by the Royal Aircraft Establishment on "The Application of the Results of the Slush Drag Tests on the Ambassador to the Accident at Munich" will be published tomorrow morning and copies will be placed in the Library. The German report states that it has not proved possible to clarify completely how the various causal factors combined to bring about the acci- dent but concludes that wing ice was an essential cause and that slush was a further cause. The memorandum shows that slush drag could have been the principal or even the sole cause of the failure of the aircraft to lift off; whether this is so cannot be established because of the impossibility of resolving, after such a length of time, the conflict of evidence regarding how much slush was present on the runway.
Board Of Trade
Bankruptcies
78.
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will give in column form the number of bankruptcies for each of the last 10 years, and for 1967 to the latest convenient date.
The numbers of Receiving Orders and Orders of Administration made under Section 130 of the Bankruptcy Act, 1914, in England and Wales in the years 1957–1966 and in the first nine months of 1967 were as follows:
| Year | Numbers |
| 1957 | 2,160 |
| 1958 | 2,337 |
| 1959 | 2,389 |
| 1960 | 2,944 |
| 1961 | 3,642 |
| 1962 | 4,273 |
| 1963 | 4,129 |
| 1964 | 3,552 |
| 1965 | 3,556 |
| 1966 | 3,862 |
| For nine months to 30th September | |
| 1967 | 3,264 |
Tariff Preferences (Pakistan)
80.
asked the President of the Board of Trade how far tariff preferences are given to cotton textiles, jute goods, sports goods, leather and leather goods, stainless steel cutlery and musical instruments imported from Pakistan; if it is intended that any such preferences should be maintained in the event of Great Britain joining the Common Market; and if he will make a statement.
Tariff preferences are given to all the commodities mentioned by my hon. Friend. We hope to revive the provisional agreement reached in 1962 on trade arrangements for developing independent Commonwealth countries, like Pakistan, for whom association is not appropriate.
Companies Act (Bank Profits)
79.
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether, having regard to the fact that bank profits are more than twice those they publish, he will take steps to bring banks within the provisions of the Companies Acts.
Banking companies are already within the provisions of the Companies Acts. I assume that my hon. Friend is referring to the exemption of
| U.K. EXPORTS OF EDGE TOOLS | ||||||||
| 1964 | 1965 | 1966 | 1967 (January-August) | |||||
| £ | £ | £ | £ | |||||
| India | … | … | … | … | 4,825 | 11,625 | 5,232 | 778 |
| Pakistan | … | … | … | … | 172,822 | 163,716 | 17,691 | 2,493 |
| Ceylon | … | … | … | … | 181,095 | 144,701 | 155,164 | 188,457 |
| Afghanistan | … | … | … | … | 318 | 345 | nil | 67 |
| SITC (Revised) headings E. 69511–524, 69553, 69558 and 69560 covering axes, hatchets, shovels, spades, shears and the like, planes, wood chisels and gouges, spokeshaves etc. | ||||||||
Arms (Export Licences For South Arabia)
81.
asked the President of the Board of Trade how many export licences for arms destined for South Arabia have been issued by his Department in each of the years 1964, 1965, 1966, and to date in 1967.
It is established practice not to disclose information about the export of arms.
Board Of Trade Advisory Committee (Applications)
84.
asked the President of the Board of Trade what steps are being taken to reduce the backlog of schemes being considered by the Board of Trade Advisory Committee; and what effect these steps have had.
Several changes have been made to speed up the consideration of applications and the number of outstanding applications with the Committee has been reduced. But delays are often caused by applicants taking a long time to supply the necessary information.
some of these companies from certain accounting provisions of the Acts. I hope to make a statement on this matter in due course.
Edge Tools (Exports)
82.
asked the President of the Board of Trade to what extent British exports have suffered as a result of the embargo imposed by India, Pakistan, Ceylon and Afghanistan on the import of edge tools from the United Kingdom.
None of these countries imposes an embargo but they all have import controls to protect their balance of payments. Our trade has fluctuated.
Advance Factories
86.
asked the President of the Board of Trade when he expects to secure a tenant for the Board of Trade advance factory at Ashington, Northumberland; and whether he will obtain from such a tenant an indication of the number of men likely to be employed.
An application from a company to rent the 25,000 sq. ft. advance factory at Ashington is now being considered. The level and suitability of employment offered is always a major factor in deciding whether a tenant is acceptable.
asked the President of the Board of Trade when the two advance factories being built by the Development Commission in Kelso and Berwick-on-Tweed will be completed; and whether tenants have been found for these factories.
February, 1968 and December, 1967 respectively. Neither factory has yet been allocated.
asked the President of the Board of Trade how many completed advance factories are awaiting tenants in Fife; how long they have been empty; and what steps he is taking to secure tenants employing predominantly male labour.
Three have been empty for 3, 8 and 17 months. We are doing all we can to obtain suitable tenants.
asked the President of the Board of Trade how many advance factories have been authorised in Scotland since October, 1964; how many are now under construction; how many have been built; how many have been let to tenants; in how many production has begun; and how many workers are currently employed in those factories that are in production.
43 have been authorised; 19 are under construction; 19 are completed; 11 have been allocated; 9 are in production. At the last count in August, 696 workers were employed.
Derelict Land (Grants)
85.
asked the President of the Board of Trade how many applications for grants towards the cost of clearing derelict neglected or unsightly land have been referred to the Board of Trade since 31st March; how many of these applications have been supported by the Board and in how many cases his final approval been given; and if he will also give respectively the corresponding figures for the Northern Region.
Seventy-two applications for grant under Section 20 of the Industrial Development Act have been referred to the Board of Trade since 31st March. Fifty-six of these have already received the Board's support. Final approval is given by the Department responsible for paying the grant. In England this is the Ministry of Housing and Local Government.The corresponding figures for the Northern Region are 23 and 21.
Chipboard (Imports From Eastern Europe)
asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) whether he will make a further statement about the discussions which he has been conducting with Eastern European countries with regard to the dumping by them of chipboard supplies into this country with damaging effect to the British chipboard industry and the essential services it performs for British forestry;(2) whether he has now completed his investigation into the prices of chipboard into this country; and whether he intends to introduce an anti-dumping order.
As regards discussions with Eastern European suppliers I cannot add to the Answer I gave to the hon. Member for Moray and Nairn (Mr. G. Campbell) on 23rd October. No application for an anti-dumping duty has been made. The industry know that if they have evidence that dumped imports are causing or threatening them with material injury, they can apply for anti-dumping action under the Customs Duties (Dumping and Subsidies) Act.—[Vol. 751, c. 396.]
Importers (Bridging Loans)
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will seek powers to provide a bridging loan for firms which deal mainly in imports, and who through circumstances beyond their control, find some of their markets cut off.
No.
Canada And United States (Imports And Exports)
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will give in column form the imports and exports to and from Canada and the United States of America, respectively, and separately, for each of the last ten years.
The figures of Canadian and United States imports and exports for 1957 to 1965 are given in Table A of the United Nations Yearbook of International Trade Statistics, 1965 and those for 1966 in Table 52 of the United Nations Monthly Bulletin of Statistics for June, 1967.
Detergents (Standard Quantities)
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will now take steps to require that detergents are only pre-packed in standard quantities.
This proposal is being discussed with the manufacturers of detergents and others.
Arms Industry (Alternative Employment)
asked the President of the Board of Trade what study has been made of alternative industrial employment which would be possible arising from a reduction of Great Britain's arms trade.
No such specific study has been made, but future trends in employment are under continuous review by the Government.
Household Goods And Food (Price And Weight)
asked the President of the Board of Trade whether he will take steps to require certain household goods and food to be marked with their price per standard unit weight.
No. I know of no cases in which the advantages of such marking would outweigh the practical difficulties. The marking of food is a matter for my right hon. Friend the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food.
Anglo-Eastern European Trade
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will state the trading position as regards imports and exports between the United Kingdom and the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, Roumania, Hungary, Czechoslovakia, Bulgaria, Poland, Yugoslavia and Eastern Germany at the nearest convenient date.
Statistics of United Kingdom trade with these countries in January-August, 1967 are given on pages 284 and 285 of the Overseas Trade Accounts for August. The Overseas Trade Accounts for September will be published tomorrow.
Michael Colliery, Fife (Redundant Miners)
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he is aware that consequent on the recent disaster at the Michael Colliery, Fife, several hundreds of miners have become redundant; and what emergency action he contemplates to provide alternative employment within the area.
I am aware of the consequences of the Michael Colliery disaster. We are concentrating our efforts on finding tenants for the two advance factories in Leven, with special emphasis on the need for male employment and I am anxious to assist any other project which will provide employment in the area.
Reading (Noise Measurement)
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will arrange for the coverage of the whole of the borough of Reading with noise measurement apparatus.
No. I do not consider that there is any need to measure aircraft noise in Reading. Questions on noise from other sources should be addressed to the Ministers concerned.
Centre For Interfirm Comparison
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement about Government assistance to the Centre for Interfirm Comparison.
The Prime Minister announced at the National Productivity Conference on 14th June that the Government had decided, subject to the approval of Parliament, to provide some direct financial assistance to the Centre for Interfirm Comparison. It is proposed to make annual grants up to a total of £210,800 during the five years beginning the 1st October, 1967. The grant in 1967–68 will be a maximum of £27,200. I shall be presenting a Supplementary Estimate in due course, but in the meantime any necessary advances will be made from the Civil Contingencies Fund.
Shipping
Trawler "St Finbarr" (Inquiry)
83.
asked the President of the Board of Trade if he will make a statement regarding the findings of the court of inquiry held in Hull upon the loss of the Hull trawler "St. Finbarr".
The Court has not yet announced its findings. I shall study them when they are announced to decide whether further action is necessary.
Agriculture, Fisheries And Food
European Economic Community
87.
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what changes will be necessary in quarantine regulations if the United Kingdom joins the European Economic Community.
No change should be necessary in the quarantine regulations relating to the importation of dogs, cats and exotic animals and birds. The Community has not issued any Directive covering these animals.Our quarantine requirements for the importation of farm animals and domestic poultry are at present included in the general veterinary conditions governing each separate importation. The Community Directives now in force do not deal with nor prohibit quarantine. Future arrangements can therefore be determined only in the light of discussion with the E.E.C.
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is aware of the large-scale destruction of food in Common Market countries this year; and whether he will make it a condition of entry that British farmers shall not be required to burn food crops.
I am aware that during periods of depressed prices growers' organisations in certain member countries of the E.E.C. have withdrawn tomatoes, apples and cauliflowers from the market and destroyed them. Under E.E.C. arrangements, market intervention of this kind is at the discretion of growers' organisations or in certain circumstances of member Governments, and Community regulations do not require the destruction of the produce concerned. The second part of the question does not therefore arise.
Koolopop Lemonade (Cost Of Price Investigation)
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what was the cost to public funds of the investigation carried out by his Department into the price of Koolopop lemonade.
£4 8s. 6d.
Horses And Ponies (Export Regulations)
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food whether he is satisfied that the regulations governing the export of horses and ponies abroad have adequate safeguards against cruelty and suffering to the livestock; and if he will make a statement.
I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave to the hon. Member for Antrim, South (Sir Knox Cunningham) on 23rd October.—[Vol. 751, c. 384.]
Fisheries Review
asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food when he expects to complete the fisheries review announced on 21st June.
I hope that it will be completed by the end of the year.
El Salvador (Technical Assistance Agreement)
88.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs whether the agreement on technical co-operation with the Republic of El Salvador has now been ratified; and what practical measures are being taken to implement this agreement in practice.
Her Majesty's Government have approved the Agreement and the Government of El Salvador was notified of this on 19th July. The Agreement is now awaiting ratification by the Legislative Assembly of El Salvador, upon the notification of which it will enter into force.The Technical Assistance Agreement cannot be applied until the Salvadorean Legislative Assembly has ratified it. El Salvador is nevertheless already receiving technical assistance from Her Majesty's Government under agreements covering specific projects.
Turkish Decree No 6/8458
89 and 90.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on what date he is prepared to entertain claims for compensation from British hauliers damaged by the delay in obtaining exemption from Turkish Decree No. 6/8458 of 4th July, 1967;(2) why there has been such delay in obtaining exemption for British hauliers from Turkish Decree No. 6/8458 of 4th July, 1967.
Exemption for British hauliers requires the agreement of the Turkish Government on the basis of reciprocity. This has been sought and I hope that it will be given shortly. The Turkish Government have also been asked, if they accord exemption, to refund any levies which have been paid by British hauliers in the meantime.
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs on what date he became aware of the effects of the Turkish Decree No. 6/8458 of 4th July, 1967.
The Turkish Decree No. 6/8458 was published on 17th July. Although the general question of the scope and application of the Decree was already under discussion with the Turkish authorities my right hon. Friend first received information about its effects on British hauliers on 31st August. The Turkish Government have since been asked to exempt British hauliers, on a reciprocal basis, from the levy imposed under the Decree.
Greece (United Nations Meetings)
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs what conferences or meetings held under the auspices of the United Nations are scheduled to be held in Greece during the next 12 months; and what steps have been taken by Her Majesty's Government to seek to change the venue to another country pending Greece's return to democratic Government.
So far as I am aware, only an International Symposium on Industrial Development, sponsored by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation, and due to open on 29th November. Her Majesty's Government have taken no steps to seek to change the venue of this Symposium.
Aden And South Arabia
asked the Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs if he will make a statement on the situation in Aden and the South Arabian Federation.
I have nothing to add to the answers I gave on 23rd October to the hon. Gentlemen the Members for Haltemprice (Mr. Wall), Chigwell (Mr. Biggs-Davison) and Bury St. Edmunds (Mr. Eldon Griffiths).—[Vol. 751, c. 1346–9.]
National Finance
Anglo-European Communities (Revenue)
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what is his current estimate of the total effect, in terms of Exchequer revenue, of British membership of the European Economic Community, the European Coal and Steel Community and Euratom; and if he will make a statement giving the basis of calculation.
It is not possible to make an estimate.
Standard Industrial Classification
91.
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer when the Standard Industrial Classification was last revised; and what proposals he has for amendments thereto.
The last full revision of the Standard Industrial Classification was published in 1958. A further full review of the Classification by an interdepartmental committee is now in progress, and it is hoped that a revised edition of the Classification will be published early next year.
Government Contracts (Scotland)
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what new Government contracts have been placed in Scotland this year.
During the first 8 months of this calendar year, new Government contracts to the value of £64 million were placed in Scotland. Of these, 146, to a total value of £34 million, were each worth £50,000 or more.
Scottish Manufacturers (Free Depreciation Survey)
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer if he will instruct the Scottish Development Department to undertake a comprehensive survey of the likely effects of reintroducing free depreciation for manufacturers investing in development areas on the level of manufacturing investment in Scotland.
No. The Government have already adopted more positive measures than the former tax relief mentioned in order to stimulate investment in the development areas generally.
Selective Employment Tax And Income Tax
asked the Chancellor of the Exchequer what he estimates to be the loss to the revenue of the abolition of Selective Employment Tax and the reduction of Income Tax by 6d. in the £ sterling.
£462 million in a full year assuming that the standard rate and both reduced rates of Income Tax were reduced by 6d.
Wireless And Television
Technological Advances (Scotland)
92.
asked the Postmaster-General what action he will take to ensure that Scotland benefits from technological advances in regard to radio and television transmission as soon as other parts of Great Britain.
I take it that the hon. Member has particularly in mind the decision, which I announced in February this year, to change from 405 to 625 lines the definition standard on which B.B.C.1 and independent television are broadcast. The intention is that the 625-line transmissions (with their colour content) of these services should start in early 1970. Both the B.B.C. and I.T.A. are anxious that these transmissions will reach as much as possible of the United Kingdom, including Scotland, as soon as possible thereafter.B.B.C.2 is already broadcast on 625 lines; and its programmes in colour should be transmitted in Scotland from Black Hill, covering central Scotland, when the colour service proper opens on 2nd December.—[Vol. 741, c. 531–3.]
Light Programme (Change Of Wavelength)
asked the Postmaster-General if he is aware that the change of the wavelength of the Light Programme by the British Broadcasting Corporation has resulted in many old and retired people particularly in Scotland being deprived of the opportunity to listen to this programme unless they undertake considerable expense on new equipment; and what steps he is taking to resolve this problem.
The problem with which the B.B.C. have had to deal is to provide on the limited number of frequencies available to them a service for as many different audiences as possible.The White Paper on Broadcasting (Cmnd. 3169) made it clear that, in order to find room for the additional service now called Radio 1, the medium wave transmission of the Light programme—now Radio 2—would have to cease. In deciding to authorise the B.B.C. to make this change, the Government took account of the fact not only that the Light Programme is widely available on long wave, but that it had become available virtually everywhere on V.H.F. The expectation that, on an overall appraisal, this redeployment would effectively extend the choice of programmes available to listeners, has been borne out by the marked increase in the number of people who listened to them.The B.B.C. tell me that the reception of the longwave transmission on their existing sets could be improved for many people if they had a simple outdoor aerial fitted.
Telephone Service
Waiting List
asked the Postmaster-General (1) how many people in the United Kingdom are at present waiting for a telephone service to be installed in their homes; and what would be the capital cost of installing them;(2) how many applications for private telephones in the United Kingdom have been outstanding for one year or more and six months or more, respectively.
At 30th September, 1967, there were 110,436 applicants waiting for telephones, of whom 28,985 have been waiting between six and twelve months, and 18,049 for a year or more. Seperate figures in respect of applicants for private telephones are not available, but the majority of those waiting will be in this category.When equipment and plant is available as part of a phased development programme, the average installation cost of a subscriber's line is about £150. To provide service for existing waiting applications in isolation is impracticable because
| 000s | ||||
| Period | Total | Production For home market | Imports | Exports |
| 1.8.62–31.7.63 | 1,424·2 (+5·1%) | 839·0 (+6·5%) | 42·5 (+76·5%) | 567·1 (-2·3%) |
| 1.8.63–31.7.64 | 1,835·3 (-18·4%) | 1,114·0 (-19·8%) | 58·7 (+27·8%) | 682·5 (-18·8%) |
| 1.8.64–31.7.65 | 1,882·3 (-20·5%) | 1,219·2 (-26·8%) | 58·5 (+28·2%) | 644·4 (-14·0%) |
| 1.8.65–31.7.66 | 1,718·2 (-12·9%) | 1,076·9 (-17·0%) | 67·7 (+10·8%) | 593·2 (- 6·6%) |
| 1.8.66–31.7.67 | 1,497·0 | 893·4 | 75·0 | 553·9 |
94.
asked the Minister of Technology if he will seek powers to acquire those units of the British motor-car industry not owned by American companies.
No.
Phantom Aircraft
asked the Minister of Technology what difficulties there have been in the United Kingdom Phantom programme; and if he will make a statement.
As might have been expected in a development programme with a tight time-scale, problems have arisen in associating a British engine and navigation/attack equipment with a U.S.
exchange equipment, cables and other plant have to be provided as part of a carefully phased programme catering not only for these applicants but demand for telephone service in the future. It is, therefore, not possible to give a realistic figure for the cost of connecting waiting applicants alone.
Technology
Motor Industry
93.
asked the Minister of Technology whether he will publish in HANSARD a table of figures showing the rise or fall of the home production of cars between the year July, 1966 to July, 1967, as compared with similar periods from the years 1963 to 1966 and similar details for the import and export of cars during this period.
Production, imports and exports of cars in the period 1st August, 1966 to 31st July, 1967 and corresponding periods in earlier years are shown below. The figures in brackets are the percentage changes obtained by comparing August, 1966 to July, 1967, with the earlier periods.airframe. The effect will be to hold up deliveries by some months. My hon. Friend, the Minister of State, discussed these matters fully with the McDonnell Douglas Corporation during his recent visit to St. Louis, and I am hopeful that they are now on the way to being resolved.
Home Department
Standing Advisory Committee On Dangerous Substances
95.
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what steps he is taking to bring to a conclusion the deliberations of the departmental committee which is examining the question of the transport of dangerous cargoes by road; and when he intends to publish its recommendations to fire and police authorities.
The Standing Advisory Committee on Dangerous Substances has been preparing proposals for reglations dealing with the conveyance by road of over 200 highly inflammable liquids; this has involved consultation with many bodies, including the police and the fire service. I expect to be able to make regulations in the near future. The Committee was set up to advise me on all matters relating to my responsibilities for the control of dangerous substances, in the interests of the safety of the public, and there is no question at present of its work being brought to an end.
Motor Vehicles (Prosecutions For Noise Offences)
asked the Minister of Transport what were the total number of prosecutions brought by the police in 1966 for excessive noise created by motor vehicles and motor cycles, respectively.
I have been asked to reply.During 1966 there were in England and Wales 11,938 prosecutions for noise offences other than sounding a horn. Of that total, 4,392 prosecutions related to motor cycles, scooters, mopeds and combination machines, and 7,546 to other motor vehicles.
Police Officers (Ratio Of Population)
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department how many police constables per head of the population exist in Great Britain.
One male police officer to about 557.
Legal Costs (Acquitted Persons)
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will take steps to ensure that, in cases where an innocent person incurs legal costs, his costs are paid to him on a taxed basis.
Section 1 of the Costs in Criminal Cases Act 1952 pro- vides that when a court orders the payment of an acquitted person's costs out of local funds the amount allowed shall be such sums as appear to the court reasonably sufficient to compensate the accused for the expenses properly incurred, and that the amount of such costs shall be ascertained by the proper officer of the court. I am considering whether it would be desirable for the courts to receive further guidance on this matter.
Corporal Punishment
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will now take steps to end corporal punishment in remand homes and Government children's homes.
In my view corporal punishment is never a desirable way of exercising control and should be avoided whenever possible. Copies of a statement expressing this view were sent early in August to the managers of all approved schools and all children's authorities who provide remand homes and other children's homes in England and Wales. Following a review of the use of corporal punishment in approved schools which is now being carried out, I intend to invite the professional and other associations principally concerned to join with members of the Home Office Children's Department in developing alternative methods, with a view to phasing out the use of corporal punishment in approved schools as quickly and as completely as possible. These discussions will be extended to cover remand homes and children's homes, though the latter present few problems since corporal punishment has already been almost completely dispensed with in this category of homes.
Zoos (Licensing)
asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will consider introducing legislation to compel zoos to observe proper standards by being licensed and inspected.
I have no such proposals in mind. The major zoos have recently formed the Federation of Zoological Gardens of Great Britain and Ireland with the object of encouraging proper care of wild animals in captivity by laying down standards of zoo management and animal husbandry. Membership of this body is open to any zoo which, on inspection by the Federation, can show that its standards are maintained.
House Of Commons (Catering Staff Pay Award)
96.
asked the Lord President of the Council if he has completed his discussions with the Chancellor of the Exchequer with regard to the promised increase in pay for the catering staff of the House of Commons; and whether he can now give the date to which the pay award will be back dated.
I have been asked to reply.As I stated on 23rd October, the pay of catering staff in the House of Commons has been increased by an average of 10 per cent. This award is not backdated, but came into force on the reassembly of the House after the Summer Recess.—[Vol. 751, c.
371.]
Economic Affairs
National Board For Prices And Incomes (References)
asked the Secretary of State for Economic Affairs what representations he has received from the Chairman of the National Board for Prices and Incomes requesting that various price and income increases should be studied by the Board; and if he will list the various price and income increases that the Chairman has requested to investigate and which have not yet been referred to the Board.
The Chairman of the Board is free, as are other persons or organisations, to suggest to the Government possible subjects for reference and he has done so informally from time to time. As the hon. Member will have noted, the Board has suggested in several of its reports topics which might form the subject of future references. Respon- sibility for determining all references to the Board rests with the Government in accordance with the Prices and Incomes Act, 1966
Commonwealth Affairs
Gibraltar
asked the Secretary of State for Commonwealth Affairs whether the Gibraltarians will be allowed to decide their future link with Great Britain by referendum, in view of the special political circumstances of Gibraltar.
No. This would be a very unusual course in our overseas territories, I do not think the internal constitutional issues in Gibraltar justify any departure from the general rule. The recent Referendum was an exceptional case since it dealt with an external issue in unique circumstances. It cannot be taken as a precedent.
Education And Science
Teachers (Pay Awards)
asked the Secretary of State for Education and Science what are the percentage increases in teachers' pay in the various awards since the inception of a national scale of salaries.
Pay awards to teachers in England and Wales can be expressed in percentage terms only from 1959. The figures are:
| Operative Date | Overall Amount | ||
| per cent. | |||
| 1st February, 1959 | … | … | 5 |
| 1st October, 1959 | … | … | 6 |
| 1st January, 1962 | … | … | 14½ |
| 1st April, 1963 | … | … | 7 |
| 1st April, 1965 | … | … | 13 |
| 1st July 1967 | … | … | 7 |
Local Government
Gypsies (Inquiry)
asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what action he intends to take following the publication of the inquiry on gypsies commissioned by his Department.
My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales and I are at present consulting local authorities about how progress can best be made.
Public Building And Works
Hm Dockyard, Portsmouth
asked the Minister of Public Building and Works what was the cost of supplemental heating in General Office Block One at Her Majesty's Dockyard in Portsmouth during the winter of 1966–67; what is the estimated cost of repairing and making safe the decorative opaque green glass on the same building; what studies have been made of the efficacy and of comparative cleaning costs of lavatory fittings in the same building; what is the estimated total cost of bringing the building up to scratch; and whether he will make a statement on plans for future buildings of the same type.
Oil heaters on loan from Naval Stores were in use in some rooms at a fuel cost of about £3; some defective glass panels have been replaced free of charge by the manufacturers and the necessity for further replacements and liability for safety precautions is being discussed with them. Normal methods of cleaning the lavatory fittings are satisfactory and economic. The estimated total cost of additional work to the building, including improving the heating and reducing noise levels, is £65,000; in planning further accommodation of this type in the Dockyard account will be taken of the problems encountered in this building.
Ministry Of Labour
Strikes
asked the Minister of Labour if he will make a statement about recent labour disputes and about the Government's proposals for dealing with the growing anarchy in industry.
I would refer the right hon. Member to the reply I gave on 23rd October to my hon. Friend the Member for Ealing, North (Mr. Molloy).—[Vol. 751, c. 354–5.]
Agricultural Training Board
asked the Minister of Labour (1) what is to be the establishment of the Agricultural Training Board; and what are to be the salaries of and expenses allowable to its officers;(2) what was the cost of acquiring and adapting the buildings required for the headquarters of the Agricultural Training Board; and what will be the annual cost of maintaining the buildings and of producing the board's newssheet.
These matters are the responsibility of the Training Board and are not reserved by the Industrial Training Act for my approval. Some relevant information is given in the Board's Report and Statement of Accounts for the period ended 31st March, 1967, which was published in September as House of Commons Paper No. 566.
Wales
Road Expenditure 1970–71
asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will now announce the proposed level of expenditure on the new construction and improvement of roads in Wales in 1970 to 1971.
Exchequer expenditure on new road construction and improvement in Wales is expected to rise to about £16 million in 1970–71. Together with expenditure by local authorities this will bring total public investment on Welsh trunk and principal roads in 1970–71 to more than £17 million.These figures take account of the effect of the new principal road grant structure and the re-definition of improvements as well as the increase in the cost of road construction since the last announcement was made.