HC Deb 21 June 1955 vol 542 c1116
5. Mr. McInnes

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland when he anticipates being able to give a decision regarding the development of Cumbernauld New Town.

Mr. J. N. Browne

As required by the New Towns Act, my right hon. Friend is consulting the local authorities concerned with a view to the publication of a draft order designating the new town area. If objections are made to the order, a public local inquiry will be required and I cannot say, therefore, when he will be able to reach a final decision.

Mr. McInnes

Is the Minister aware that this matter has been before him for over two and a half years, and in view of the gravity of Glasgow's housing problem and the imminence of the exhaustion of sites, will be take speedy action to bring the order into effect?

Mr. Browne

I can assure the hon. Gentleman that we are doing everything that we can. We shall take as speedy action as is possible under the procedure of the Act.