§ 42. Colonel Gomme-Duncanasked the Secretary of State for Scotland on how many new towns in Scotland work has been started; what is the estimated number of dwellings required in each; the number completed and occupied up to 31st May, 1950; and the number under construction at 31st May, 1950.
§ Miss HerbisonWork on both new towns in Scotland has been begun. Twelve thousand houses are estimated to be required at East Kilbride; at 31st May, 78 had been completed and occupied and 212 were under construction. Eight thousand houses were originally estimated to be required at Glenrothes, but this figure is being reviewed in the light of the latest information about coalmining development in Fife. No houses have yet been begun by the development corporation, but 136 houses are expected to be started shortly. The county council have two housing schemes within the new town area in which 18 houses have been completed and occupied and 278 are under construction.
§ Mr. Henderson StewartDoes that answer mean that the number of dwellings to be built at Glenrothes in the county of Fife is now to be reduced?
§ Miss HerbisonAt the present time we are dealing with new figures that have been put forward by the National Coal Board in the developing of that area. We must await the decision on these new figures before we can say what will be happening.
§ Mr. John MacLeodThree or four years ago there was talk of a new town at Invergordon in my constituency. Has that idea been completely dropped now?
§ Miss HerbisonThat is another question.
Major LloydWill the hon. Lady tell the House what the latest estimate of total cost of new towns in Scotland is likely to be, because the people of Scotland want to know?
§ Miss HerbisonIf the hon. and gallant Gentleman will put down a Question, we will try to answer it.
Commander GalbraithWill the hon. Lady make certain that these towns are being provided with schools, churches and halls and that they are not being left without them, as other new towns have been?
§ Miss HerbisonIt is one of the ideas behind the new towns that we should have the amenities that we did not have in the older places.