HC Deb 09 December 1943 vol 395 cc1128-9
45. Mr. Riley

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the advisability of having a comprehensive statement, issued at an early date, indicating the Government's plans regarding contemplated changes in the scope and functions of the powers and duties of local authorities?

46. Captain Sir William Brass

asked the Prime Minister whether, in view of his recent declaration in connection with the nationalisation of the coal industry, he will give a similar undertaking with regard to the recent proposals for the enlargement and alteration of existing local government areas, bearing in mind the representations which have been made to him by national associations of local authorities and the anxiety with which such proposals are viewed by the members of local administrative boards in close touch with public opinion in their respective localities?

The Deputy Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

I would refer my hon. Friends to the statement made by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister on 22nd September in reply to Questions on this subject. I have at present nothing to add to that statement.

Mr. Riley

Is not my right hon. Friend aware of the concern among local authorities over their uncertainty with regard to many of their present duties and cannot some statement be made which will give them an indication of how to arrange their programmes?

Mr. Attlee

I am sure that if my hon. Friend will look at the reply by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister to which I alluded he will see matter completely satisfying any fears of any general overturn of local government.

Sir W. Brass

Is my right hon. Friend aware that there is great disquietude in various parts of the country because people feel that the administration may be taken away from those in close touch with local affairs and handed to someone who is further off? They are very frightened.

Mr. Attlee

I can assure my hon. Friend that those fears are groundless.

Mr. Holdsworth

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the local authorities are dissatisfied with the Prime Minister's refusal to set up an inquiry before any change was made, and can he give further consideration to that point?

Mr. Messer

Is it not true that a comprehensive health service, and changes in the education service and in other services will necessitate some alteration in local government administration, and can we be told what is in the mind of the Government upon that point?

Mr. Ralph Etherton

Would the Deputy Prime Minister consider giving time to the Motion standing in the name of the hon. Member for Stretford?

[That this House, whilst recognising that changes will be required in the structure and functions of local authorities in order to meet the requirements of post-war conditions and whilst concerned that the consequent reorganisation of local services shall not be delayed, is determined to maintain the full responsibility of elected local representatives and thus to preserve the vitality and administrative efficiency of our democratic local institutions.]

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