HC Deb 11 July 1946 vol 425 cc557-8
13. Mr. Stanley Prescott

asked the Minister of Health whether it is open to a county borough to make representation to the Local Government Boundary Commission for the absorbing of an adjoining non-county borough and whether the commission is empowered to make such a recommendation.

Mr. Key

The reply to both parts of the Question is "Yes, Sir."

Mr. Prescott

Is it not the usual practice for official consultations to take place between local authorities before any decision is reached, or before any representation is made to the Commission? In particular, is the Minister aware that Blackburn Corporation expressed their desire and intention to incorporate the neighbouring borough of Darwen without any official consultation taking place?

Mr. Key

That is a matter of courtesy between local authorities, over which we have no jurisdiction.