HC Deb 11 May 1939 vol 347 cc675-6
42. Mr. Mander

asked the Minister of Health whether he can now state the policy of the Government towards the report of the National Parks Committee, 1931?

Mr. Elliot

The Town and Country Planning Act, 1932, which was passed after the publication of the report of the committee to which the hon. Member refers enables many of the objects aimed at by the committee to be secured under planning powers, and in dealing with planning schemes this purpose has been constantly in mind.

Mr. Mander

In view of what has been happening in Edale, does not the Minister realise that definite action ought to be taken upon this report, and is not eight years long enough even for this Government to make up its mind?

Mr. Noel-Baker

Is it not true that the Act of 1932 has totally failed to ensure the preservation of national parks, and will the Minister not take into consideration the practical and modest proposals of the report of 1931?

Mr. Elliot

I do not agree that the Act has totally failed, because special attention has been paid to it in schemes such as that affecting the Lake District and various parts of the South Downs.

Mr. Mander

Have the Government decided not to accept either of the two proposals put forward by the National Parks Committee?

Mr. Elliot

No, Sir, the hon. Member would be wrong in that assumption.

Mr. Mander

Then is it that they cannot make up their minds?