§ 22. Mr. Donnellyasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government the duties and terms of reference of Sir Humfrey Gale's appointment in his Department.
§ Mr. SandysI have appointed Sir Humfrey Gale to advise and assist me in securing speedier progress in the promotion of schemes under the Town Development Act for relieving the congestion of population in the large cities. Sir Humfrey Gale will be available to assist in negotiations between the local authorities of the cities concerned and the authorities of the "receiving" districts.
§ Mr. DonnellyWhile welcoming this very necessary appointment, may I ask the right hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that a great deal of the Town Development Act depends upon adequate subsidies for the smaller local authorities in the receiving areas? Without going any further than the statement which 8 was made earlier regarding housing subsidies, will the Minister give an assurance that nothing will be done in the future to prejudice the position of the smaller local authorities in those receiving areas?
§ Mr. SandysI am very happy to give that assurance.