HC Deb 21 October 1952 vol 505 cc856-7
40. Mr. Walker-Smith

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government when a decision is to be taken and promulgated in regard to the proportions in which the cost is to be borne for the Harlow Trunk Sewer, the Stevenage Trunk Sewer, and the Rye Meads Sewage Disposal Works.

Mr. H. Macmillan

I am afraid that I cannot say how long it will take to settle this. Many interests are involved. Meanwhile, the actual work is going ahead.

Mr. Walker-Smith

Does my right hon. Friend appreciate that this important matter has been hanging about for a long time both with this Government and the last, and will he bear in mind the great embarrassment caused to local authorities in Hertfordshire owing to the uncertainty in regard to the apportionment of the costs of these projects?

Mr. Macmillan

It is, of course, an important matter, but I think it is quite clear that it is a very complicated one to settle: perhaps, what is more important, the work has not been delayed.

Mr. Walker-Smith

Yes, but will my right hon. Friend have regard to the general context of this matter, which is a feeling in Hertfordshire that the arrival of the new towns is going to involve great financial liabilities for the existing population?

Mr. Macmillan

Yes, Sir.