HC Deb 30 April 1957 vol 569 cc13-4
24 Mr. Blenkinsop

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will state his decisions on claims for general access to open country in the West Riding of Yorkshire and Boulsworth Hill, Lancashire, following local inquiries held on 26th October. 1955, and 20th March, 1956, respectively.

Mr. H. Brooke

I am extremely sorry to have to ask the hon. Member to wait a little bit longer. It will be very soon now.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Does the right hon. Gentleman realise that we have had nearly two years' delay in this matter? I realise that there has been some illness. and there have been other reasons for the delay, but I hope that he can speed the matter up. Can he assure the House that it is not the question of the Duke of Devonshire's shooting rights which is preventing this matter from being settled?

Mr. Brooke

I do express my apologies for this delay, which, as the hon. Member has been good enough to mention, has been partly caused by the illness of key people in my Department. I am determined to get these decisions out as soon as I can.

Mr. Blenkinsop

Is it not the Duke of Devonshire?