HC Deb 10 July 1939 vol 349 cc1801-2
50. Mr. G. Macdonald

asked the Minister of Agriculture whether he will give an estimate of the amount of derelict and semi-derelict land in Great Britain in consequence of the closing down and dismantling of collieries; and whether he will take consultation with other Ministers responsible for such work and the local authorities involved as to the best use to which such land could be devoted?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

No, Sir. I have no information on which to base an estimate of the kind requested, but it is believed that the total area involved is not large. If it would be economically practicable to use such colliery land for agriculture I think it would be taken up for this purpose and that action on the lines suggested is unnecessary.

Mr. Macdonald

Is the Minister aware that in Lancashire there are hundreds of acres of this derelict land and that it is nothing but an eyesore, and could not something be done about it?

Sir R. Dorman-Smith

I shall be glad if the hon. Gentleman will have a talk to me about it.

Mr. Hannah

Are not conditions very much the same throughout the Black Country?

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