asked the Minister of Transport if he is aware of the need for more dry and floating docks in Aberdeen harbour for the purposes of the shipbuilding and ship-repairing industry, and that this was considered by the working party set up by Her Majesty's Government, which recommended that Her Majesty's Government should provide finance to provide more such docks; when finance will be forthcoming; and when work will begin.

I am aware that a working party was convened in 1960 to consider this matter. But it was convened by the Aberdeen Harbour Board, not by the Government, and it recommended the replacement of two pontoon docks for which the Board is responsible. The Board has not submitted to the Government any request for financial assistance for replacement of these docks.

Does not the hon. and gallant Gentleman realise that this is a longstanding obligation upon the Government and that the last two sentences of my Question ask when the finance will be forthcoming and when the work will begin? That is the essential part of the Question. Will the hon. and gallant Gentleman answer it? This is a matter which vitally affects the trade, industry, commerce and employment, not only of the City of Aberdeen, but also of the workers in the county, as well.

It is not for me to answer the Question. It is for the Aberdeen Harbour Board, whose responsibility it is to take the initiative in this matter. The Board is empowered, if it wishes, to borrow for these purposes. It also lies with the Board, if it wishes, to apply to the Government, but it has not done so.