HC Deb 29 March 1960 vol 620 cc1122-3
34. Mr. Mason

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what response he has received in answer to Circular No. 26/59 relating to colliery spoil heaps, with particular reference to agreements that have been reached between local authorities and the National Coal Board to carry out minor improvements of spoil heaps.

Sir K. Joseph

An agreement has been reached in respect of seven spoil heaps in Lancashire. My right hon. Friend will shortly be asking local authorities elsewhere to let him know of any progress in their areas.

Mr. Mason

Will the Minister consider going a stage further and consulting his right hon. Friend the Minister of Fuel and Power and the National Coal Board with a view to using the spare machinery that is becoming available because of the rundown of opencast mining with a view to effecting more improvements?

Sir K. Joseph

I think that would be a consideration to bear in mind when we receive the answer to the circular that my right hon. Friend contemplates.

Dr. Stross

Will the Parliamentary Secretary tell us what actual assistance the Ministry proposes to give to local authorities in this matter? Is he aware that in many areas like Stoke-on-Trent these spoil heaps take up a very large percentage of the available land space?

Sir K. Joseph

Perhaps the hon. Gentleman would put down a Question on this subject.