HC Deb 28 July 1953 vol 518 c1085
43. Mr. Sparks

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will take steps to set up a Local Government Boundary Commission to review and report upon local government boundaries, functions, status and financial resources.

Mr. Marples

I cannot add to the replies given on 28th April and 19th May last.

Mr. Sparks

That reply appears to give no hope whatever that the Minister will do anything at all to look into this problem of the re-organisation of local government administration. Can the hon. Gentleman say whether there is any possibility at any foreseeable date of his right hon. Friend's taking any initiative or action in this matter?

Mr. Marples

My right hon. Friend is aware that this is an urgent problem, but the Question on the Order Paper is, if he will take steps to set up a local government boundary commission. The hon. Gentleman in 1949 voted for the abolition of the Local Government Boundary Commission, and it is gratifying to notice his change of heart.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Will the hon. Gentleman agree that the first step to be taken here is a Government decision as to the functions of local government, before we can hope to make very much progress with the boundaries?

Mr. Marples

That is a very complicated problem, and I should not like to answer yes or no to that.