§ 39. Mr. C. Pannellasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he is aware that there has been long delay on the part of his Department in confirming the clearance areas after the proper public inquiry has been held in relation to the district of New Wortley, Leeds; and what steps he has taken to expedite matters.
§ The Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs (Mr. Henry Brooke)Four compulsory orders and two clearance orders are involved, affecting a large area. They were the subject of public inquiry or hearing last December. I have confirmed two of the compulsory purchase orders and shall give my decision on the remaining four orders as soon as I can. But these raise legal or procedural points on which I am now waiting to hear from the Council.
§ Mr. PannellIs the Minister aware that within the City of Leeds it is considered that his Department takes a rather 215 leisurely view of these things? When can Leeds reasonably expect to have this matter cleared up, involving as it does a degree of slum clearance? Further, does he appreciate that the delay is very much to the disadvantage of the inhabitants?
§ Mr. BrookeI must rebut that allegation, because I know that there have been previous occasions when my Department has gone to special trouble to help the Corporation by expediting matters. In this case there are two small legal points outstanding, and also the question of whether for part of the area there should be a clearance order rather than a compulsory purchase order. I am now waiting to hear from the Leeds City council on those matters.