HC Deb 24 March 1959 vol 602 cc1131-2
63. Colonel Beamish

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether the promised survey of the working of the existing arrangements for the making up of private streets has yet begun; how long it is likely to take; whether he is aware of the urgency of this matter, since many projects which would have been undertaken in the coming months have now been deferred pending the results of the enquiry; and when he hopes to be able to announce his proposals for amendments to the existing law.

70. Sir F. Medlicott

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs, what further progress has been made with the examination of the arrangements for the making up of private streets; and if he will make a statement.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. J. R. Bevins)

This survey is still at a preliminary stage. I am not aware that projects have been held up pending the outcome of the survey. While my right hon. Friend appreciates the desirability of making as rapid progress as possible it must take some time to find an answer to this complicated problem.

Colonel Beamish

I fully appreciate that. May I ask my hon. Friend whether he would be willing during an inquiry to look at typical cases of hardship which exist in my constituency—no doubt other hon. Members have similar cases in their constituencies—where the existing legislation seems to impose an unduly heavy burden on the shoulders of people who can ill afford to bear it?

Mr. Bevins

Yes, certainly. My right hon. Friend is prepared to look at any case which is put to him.