HC Deb 30 September 1941 vol 374 cc456-7
46. Mr. Mander

asked the Minister without Portfolio, whether he is now in a position to state when it is proposed to introduce legislation consequent on the recommendations of the Uthwatt Committee, and to set up a central planning authority as recommended therein?

The Minister without Portfolio (Mr. Arthur Greenwood)

Considerable progress has been made in the drafting of legislation consequent upon the recommendations of the Uthwatt Committee, and the Government hope to introduce the Bill before Christmas. On the question of a central planning authority, I would refer my hon. Friend to the answers which I gave to Questions on 17th July and 9th September.

Mr. Mander

Would my right hon. Friend say why the Government are not to accept, the recommendation of the Uthwatt Committee on this fundamental point of a central planning authority, and will he give it reconsideration?

Mr. Greenwood

If my hon. Friend will look at the report of the Uthwatt Committee, he will see that they do not recommend a central planning authority. They assume, quite rightly, that it is the Government's policy to set one up, but as the issues involve so many Departments and an important central planning authority should act with proper powers, it is a matter for close consideration, and I hope before long to make a statement to the House.

Mr. Pickthorn

Is it intended to pay more deference to this Uthwatt Committee than was paid to the last Uthwatt report?

Mr. Greenwood

We are considering the last Uthwatt report.

Mr. A. Bevan

In view of the complexity and importance of this matter, will arrangements be made for a reasonable period of time to elapse between the availability of the Bill in the Vote Office and its introduction into the House?

Mr. Greenwood

Most certainly.