HC Deb 20 December 1960 vol 632 cc1050-1
21. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he will appoint a committee to investigate the extent to which local authorities have used their powers to promote recreation and entertainment and the ways in which they have done so, with a view to publishing a report and its recommendations.

Sir K. Joseph

My right hon. Friend has no reason to think that local authorities do not make good use of these powers.

Mr. Swingler

Is it not generally agreed that more help should be given from public funds to the arts and the promotion of recreation and sport? Is it not also a fact that very few local authorities have used to the full their powers under the Local Government Act? Does the Minister know the extent to which local authorities have used those powers? Could not such a committee show valuable experience gained by some local authorities which would encourage others to use these powers?

Sir K. Joseph

As to capital expenditure by local authorities, this has been rising for several years. As to entertainment provided through the rates, both the need and provision vary greatly from locality to locality. On the whole subject, I think this is a question for the Minister of Education.