HC Deb 19 July 1949 vol 467 cc1163-4
58. Sir John Mellor

asked the Minister of Health what estimated expense has been incurred by the local authorities in pursuance of the provisions of the Local Government (Boundary Commission) Act.

1945; and what purpose, in view of the pending repeal of the Act, this expense has served.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Health (Mr. Blenkinsop)

It is not possible to frame any reliable estimate, but one of the general principles laid down by regulation for the guidance of the Commission in discharging their functions under the Act of 1945 required them to take all practicable steps to discourage local authorities and other persons from incurring unnecessary expense in connection with local inquiries and other business transacted under the Act.

Sir J. Mellor

Will the Parliamentary Secretary say why the Minister did not make an earlier announcement of his intention to repeal this Act?

Mr. Blenkinsop

The last part of the hon. Gentleman's Question hardly arises, because very little expense was incurred, so far as we are aware.