§ 23. Mr. Ellis Smithasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what action has been taken by the local authorities on clearing or improving colliery slag heaps and land; if he is satisfied with the progress made and the speed of the action taken; and what are the prospects in north Staffordshire and Lancashire.
§ Sir K. JosephA number of schemes for reclaiming old spoil heaps for other uses or for improving their appearance have been carried out or are now going ahead. My right, hon. Friend would like to see much more done; but progress does appear to be quickening in many districts, including Lancashire and Staffordshire, whose planning authorities are keenly interested in this work.
§ Mr. Ellis SmithNo one appreciates that sympathetic Answer more than I do, but here again, does the Parliamentary Secretary agree that we are moving at a very slow speed? In view of the large resources lying derelict which could be improved with very little expenditure, will the Parliamentary Secretary consult his right hon. Friend with a view to speeding up this matter?
§ Sir K. JosephMy right hon. Friend sent out a circular last year and has just asked for a progress report from all local authorities.