§ 10. Sir R. THOMASasked the Home Secretary whether he is aware that local authorities are doing little to avail themselves of the powers conferred upon them during the life of the present Parliament to check the progressive disfigurement of the countryside by advertisements, petrol stations, etc.; and whether he will issue a circular to local authorities about this matter?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI think the hon. Member does the local authorities some injustice. Forty-one out of 63 county councils have made byelaws under the Advertisements Regulation Act, 1925, which is a very satisfactory proportion. I do not consider that any circular is required. As regards the disfigurement of the countryside by petrol stations, I do not know of any powers which have been given either by this or by any previous Parliament for dealing with the matter, but I believe there is a private Bill before the House at the present time.
§ Sir R. THOMASWill the right hon. Gentleman support that private Bill?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSI must wait and hear what the arguments are.
§ Captain BRASSIs it not a fact that these petrol stations serve a very useful purpose for a very large section of the community?
§ Sir W. JOYNSON-HICKSYes, but they are more useful than ornamental.
§ Captain BRASS rose—