HC Deb 09 December 1942 vol 385 cc1557-8
34. Major Markham

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Planning whether he has con- sidered the letter from the town clerk of Nottingham, dated 4th December, urging that the recommendations of paragraph 49 of the Final Report of the Uthwatt Committee should be implemented at once; and what reply he has sent?

The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Works and Planning (Mr. Henry Strauss)

My Noble Friend has replied to the letter to which the hon. and gallant Member refers, drawing the Town Clerk's attention to the recent statements which he and my right hon. and learned Friend the Paymaster-General have made, and informing him that these recommendations of the Uthwatt Committee are being investigated by the Government and that the recommendations made by the Nottingham City Council will be carefully considered.

Major Markham

Can the Minister give any indication whether an early decision is likely to be taken on this paragraph?

Mr. Strauss

The recommendations of the Uthwatt Committee particularly mentioned in the Question concern the scheme for the acquisition of all development rights in undeveloped land lying outside built-up areas. It is a novel and far-reaching scheme, which clearly requires close investigation by the Government.

Major Markham

The hon. Gentleman still has not answered my Supplementary Question, which is, although it is a new suggestion, whether an early decision can be expected on this paragraph.

Mr. Strauss

I am not in a position to add to-day to the considered statements recently made on the subject in both Houses of Parliament.