§ 26. Mr. A. J. Irvineasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government by what methods he proposes to encourage greater use being made of the facilities offered to receiving authorities by the Town Development Act, 1952.
§ Mr. H. BrookeI am sure that the key to this lies in helping the receiving local authorities to understand what is involved, and how the reception of overspill may be made to bring real benefit to their districts. This is being done in various ways. My officers are in contact with many potential receiving authorities; and so is Sir Humfrey Gale, who is assisting the Department in promoting overspill arrangements. Some exporting authorities have established excellent cooperation with local authorities which may be able to help them; and some county councils are giving great assistance to their district councils. There is much more to be done, but I believe that during the next few years an increasing use will be made of the facilities offered.
§ Mr. IrvineI am much obliged for that Answer, but will the Minister agree that promptitude in payment of his Department's contribution and reasonable treatment of cases where final costs exceed original estimates will help in these matters?
§ Mr. BrookeI sought to give an assurance on both those matters when I was reviewing them, and I will try to see that we do better.
§ Mr. MitchisonIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that it is not exactly encouragement to stop negotiations under this Act, as in the case of Kettering?
§ Mr. BrookePerhaps the hon. and learned Gentleman will put down a Question on that so that I can give a considered reply.