49. Mr. Arthur Duckworthasked the Minister of Health whether he is aware that objections lodged by a majority of householders against proposals for the re-naming of their street are constantly ignored by the local authority; and whether he will take steps to make the existing rights of objection effective in such cases?
§ Mr. BernaysThe reply to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part of the question, outside London any objector has a right of appeal to a court of summary jurisdiction, under the Public Health Acts. In London the London County Council is the responsible authority. In neither case is the matter one in which my right hon. Friend has any jurisdiction.
Mr. DuckworthIs it not a fact that in London, where no right of appeal to the court exists, the existing rights have become an entirely meaningless formality?
§ Mr. KellyIs there not given an opportunity in London not only to appeal but to have an investigation spreading over a long period, sometimes two years, before the alteration takes place?
§ Mr. BernaysI should be very glad if the hon. Member would let me know any cases which have come to his notice. Of course my right hon. Friend has no power to interfere with the present Act of Parliament.