HC Deb 21 June 1949 vol 466 cc11-2
18. Major Guy Lloyd

asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning under what powers the development corporations of the new towns are dictating the lay-out of the front gardens of houses.

The Minister of Town and Country Planning (Mr. Silkin)

Any powers in this matter possessed by new towns development corporations would derive from their status as landlords. I am unaware that any corporation has exercised such powers in the way the hon. and gallant Member suggests.

Major Lloyd

Is it to be assumed from the right hon. Gentleman's reply that if anybody objects to an order by a development corporation to arrange his front garden in the way in which the corporation insists—that is, a uniform way—then he is at liberty to refuse?

Mr. Silkin

Yes, unless it is a condition of tenancy, and I do not for a moment imagine that that situation will arise.