§ 36 Mr. BARRANDasked the Prime Minister (1) whether his attention has been called to the expense involved in holding inquiries into extension schemes under Section 54 of the Local Government Act, 1888; whether, having regard to the need at the present 2425 time for public economy of the most constructive and relentless kind, he will take steps, by legislation or otherwise, to prevent such unproductive expenditure of public money by postponing all such inquiries until the financial position of the country is placed upon a satisfactory footing;
(2) Whether he is aware that extension schemes are being put forward by Leeds and Bradford in regard to which the preliminary inquiries alone will involve the various districts concerned in an expenditure which is estimated to amount to at least £250,000; and whether, having regard to the demand for economy in everything that is not essential to national security and national efficiency, he will take the necessary measures to postpone these inquiries until such time as the districts concerned can afford to spend public money in this way?
§ The MINISTER of HEALTH (Dr. Addison)I have been asked to reply to this and the succeeding question. I am well aware of the large expense which has in the past been incurred in connection with inquiries in regard to borough extensions. I think that a good deal of money has been wasted in the excessive employment of expert witnesses and counsel. I have made practical suggestions to the parties concerned in the Leeds and Bradford proposed extensions with a view to diminishing the cost very substantially, but I have not yet received from all the parties their observations on these suggestions. I have no information as to the amount which is being expended by them on preliminary enquiries.
§ Mr. BARRANDIs it not a fact that these bodies concerned have felt themselves unable to accept the proposals of my right hon. Friend because they are fighting for their separate existence?
§ Dr. ADDISONIn my opinion their action is most unreasonable and most wasteful.