HC Deb 19 February 1942 vol 377 cc1879-80
15. Sir H. Williams

asked the Minister of Health when the Standing Conference on London Regional Planning was established; whether he can say how many meetings have been held since September, 1939; what was the date of the last meeting; and upon whom is the responsibility for summoning meetings?

Mr. E. Brown

The Standing Conference on London Regional Planning was established in 1937, and, by its terms of reference, it is limited to dealing with planning matters relating to Greater London which may from time to time be referred to it. The Conference first met on 13th October, 1937, and its last meeting was held on 3rd March, 1939. I understand that no further meetings have been held because no matters have been referred to it since the outbreak of war. Meetings are summoned by the Chairman through the Honorary Secretary who is the Clerk of the London County Council.

Sir H. Williams

Do I understand, having regard to the very much greater importance of planning in the regions concerned, that this Conference has not been summoned at all?

Mr. Brown

The fact is that matters may be referred to the Conference from any source.

Sir H. Williams

But surely there are matters which should be referred to this Conference?

Mr. Brown

That, of course, is a general question which has a wider application than to my Department.

Mr. MacLaren

Is it not true that the work of this Conference his been entirely abolished owing to the high value of land?