HC Deb 05 December 1961 vol 650 cc1129-30
23. Dr. Stross

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether he is now prepared to assist local authorities in the financing of the redevelopment of their towns and cities, by enabling them to forgo payment of interest on loans until revenue begins to accrue; and when he will make a statement as to his intentions.

Dr. Hill

Local authorities have power to defer provision for the repayment of loans in respect of expenditure on certain services, but I am advised that it would require legislation to extend this to redevelopment. I would be prepared to consider this when a suitable opportunity arises, but I cannot say when that will be.

Dr. Stross

While, in part, thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his Answer, may I ask whether he remembers that his predecessor—and, certainly, the former Parliamentary Secretary—appeared convinced that this would be a desirable step to take? May I, therefore, urge the right hon. Gentleman, in view of his past professional career, to take steps as soon as possible to see that local authorities have the power to take this opportunity of rebuilding their cities and towns?

Dr. Hill

I had intended my Answer to convey sympathy with the hon. Member's point, but what I cannot say is when it will be possible to introduce any such change.

Mr. K. Robinson

Further to the suggestion of my hon. Friend the Member for Stoke-on-Trent, Central (Dr. Stross), would the Minister do all he can to help local authorities to escape the clutches of property speculators, who are always lying in wait for an opportunity to develop town centres?

Dr. Hill

That is just a rhetorical question, intended to convey bias rather than to seek information.

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