§ 31. Mr. Swinglerasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will make a statement on his discussions with representatives of local authority associations on the problems arising from mining subsidence; and what action he will take to assist the local authorities affected.
§ Mr. SandysI am not yet ready to make a statement on this subject.
§ Mr. SwinglerWill the Minister indicate when he will be ready? Is he aware that we understand that examination of the problem has been going on but that we recall that a pretty thorough examination was made by the Turner Committee which reported five years ago? Is he aware that the local authorities affected are very anxious that some urgent action should be taken to assist them? When will the right hon. Gentleman be in a position to bring forward the proposals?
§ Mr. SandysI well understand the urgency of this matter but, before making a statement, I think that it might be a good thing if I went myself and saw one or two areas which are affected by mining subsidence. I am planning to do so during the Christmas Recess.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that we warmly welcome that decision? Will he bear in mind that if the Turner Committee Report were fully implemented, we should get rid of a great social injustice at a relatively small cost to the National Exchequer?