HC Deb 11 May 1944 vol 399 cc2070-1
30. Mr. Mander

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning whether he can now state the decisions of the Government with regard to the Barlow, Scott, and Uthwatt Reports; and when any legislation or White Papers may be expected on any of the questions involved.

The Minister of Town and Country Planning (Mr. W. S. Morrison)

I have nothing at present to add to the Answer which I gave to the hon. Member on 30th March, 1944.

Mr. Mander

When does my right hon. Friend think he will be in a position to give a decision on this matter? Is it true that all efforts to secure agreement on Uthwatt have failed?

Mr. Morrison

It is not true that all efforts to secure agreement on this matter have failed. My hon. Friend's Question deals with three Reports. I stated the Government's views on the Scott Report on 30th November last.

Mr. Shinwell

Is it not true to say that the Government have not the slightest intention of implementing the recommendations of the Uthwatt Report; and would it not be only fair to the country to say so?

Mr. Morrison

No, Sir, it would be neither fair nor true.

Lieut.-Colonel Dower

I hope my right hon. Friend will not be stampeded by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Air.

Mr. Mander

When is the legislation promised a year or two ago to enable local authorities to purchase bombed sites likely to be introduced?

Mr. Morrison

I hope that that Bill will be before the House very shortly.