§ 15. Mr. MANDERasked the Lord Privy Seal if he is aware that the Association of Midland Local Authorities is still awaiting further proposals from him with reference to the scheme for the levelling of pit mounds in the Black Country; and can he state the reason for the continued delay?
Mr. THOMASThe length of time for which this matter has been under consideration is accounted for by the complexity of the subject and by a desire to go to the limit of what is possible to meet the local authorities. Proposals which must be regarded as the most favourable which can be made, and as final, were sent to the association on the 1st March. I hope the offer will be accepted in the spirit in which it is made, and that there will be no further delay in commencing the work.
§ Mr. MANDERAm I to understand that at long last an offer in writing has been actually sent to these local authorities?
Mr. THOMASNot at long last; but, after long negotiations, we have endeavoured to meet the difficulties of the local authorities. The hon. Member 231 knows perfectly well that their borrowing power is affected, and I have been endeavouring for six months to find ways and means of getting over it.