HC Deb 15 April 1931 vol 251 cc325-6

Motion made, and Question proposed, That for the purpose of any Act of the present Session providing, among other matters, for the making of schemes with respect to the development and the planning of land, it is expedient to authorise the payment out of moneys provided by Parliament of—

  1. (a) any sums payable by a public department under an agreement entered into by them, with the approval of the Treasury, for securing that land under the control of the department, or in their occupation, or vested in them, shall be laid out and used in conformity with the general objects of a scheme under the said Act; and
  2. (b) any expenses incurred by the Minister of Health or the Department of Health for Scotland under the said Act in exercising, on default being made by a local authority or a responsible authority, any powers vested by the said Act in that authority."—(King's Recommendation signified).—[Mr. Greenwood.]

Mr. GREENWOOD

This Financial Resolution is of relatively small importance, and is only required for two Clauses of the Bill. There are powers in the Bill allowing Government Departments to operate schemes and to expend money in developing their properties in accordance with town planning schemes. It may be therefore, that at some future time there will be a liability falling upon the Treasury, with its approval, and it is in order to cover that possible contingency that it has been found necessary to put down this Resolution. The possibility of our having to take action in the case of default by a local authority also requires us to have a money Resolution, although the money would be recoverable, and as a matter of fact no liability would ultimately rest upon the Exchequer.

Sir K. WOOD

I want to say, on behalf of myself and my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Kelvingrove (Major Elliot) that on that definite assurance from the Minister we do not propose to offer any opposition to this money Resolution.

Resolution to be reported To-morrow.

The remaining Orders were read, and postponed.

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