HC Deb 08 December 1959 vol 615 cc218-9
34. Miss Herbison

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he has now decided to designate, as the fourth new town in Scotland, Shotts. Newmains, Cleland. or Harthill.

52. Mr. Manuel

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether he will make a statement on the official proposal, supported by Glasgow Town Council and Ayr County Council. to build a fourth new town at Lugton.

Mr. Maclay

If and when the necessity arises for considering the designation of a further new town, all locations which appear to be suitable for the purpose will be considered, including those mentioned by both hon. Members.

Miss Herbison

Is the Minister aware, from Questions that have already been asked today, how serious this position is for Glasgow? Is he also aware that many representations have been made about the area in this Question, and that so far we have had no satisfaction at all from him?

Mr. Maclay

I should like to add to what was said in answer to earlier Questions that the hon. Lady, presumably, realises that what is just developing at Glenrothes means that it will become more important as an overspill town than in the past. I do not think I can add anything to what I said about the timing of the need for a new town.

Mr. Manuel

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the present piecemeal overspill arrangements are obviously not going to have the impact on Glasgow's housing needs which they ought to have? Is he aware of the very welcome speech of the Convenor of Ayr County, and also the statement made by a prominent member of the Glasgow Town Council, and would he be prepared to initiate talks between the Glasgow Corporation, the Ayr County Council and the Renfrew County Council in order to give some reality to this excellent suggestion for a fourth new town to be built at Lugton?

Mr. Maclay

I think it is too soon to dismiss the whole overspill arrangements as failing completely in their purpose. This is a matter which we are examining very carefully, and I do not think that the time is ripe for going into details about another new town.