HC Deb 06 June 1961 vol 641 cc855-6
10. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs why his Department's Estimate for expenditure in 1961–62 under Class V, Vote 1, subhead G.3, for the acquisition of derelict land and improvement of amenities under the Local Employment Act, 1960, is less than the estimate for 1960–61.

Sir K. Joseph

The estimate for grant payments in respect of derelict land under the Distribution of Industry Act, 1945, for the financial year 1960–61 was unusually high because an exceptional number of schemes were undertaken in the last year of that Act. The applications submitted by local authorities under the 1960 Act do not warrant a larger estimate for 1961–62.

Mr. Boyden

If the hon. Gentleman is so anxious to get rid of industrial clutter and litter, is it not time that he took a more progressive attitude on this problem? Is he taking a very narrow view of applications as they come forward, or is he taking an expansive view?

Sir K. Joseph

Not only does my right hon. Friend not take a narrow view, but he would welcome more applications.

11. Mr. Boyden

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what steps he has taken to encourage local authorities in the Bishop Auckland constituency to acquire and improve derelict land under Section 5 of the Local Employment Act, with a view to improving prospects of employment in the area.

Sir K. Joseph

When the Local Employment Act came into force I sent a circular to all local authorities explaining the grants available under Section 5 of the Act and encouraging the submission of schemes for rehabilitating derelict land in development districts. Details about the grant and how to apply for it were also sent out.

Mr. Boyden

Since there has been only one application in my constituency and I understand that there has been only one in the Durham County Council area—and that was turned down—will the hon. Gentleman take more positive steps to see that local authorities get together on these applications, because at the moment it appears as though the Act is not working at all in this area?

Sir K. Joseph

Perhaps this answer will serve to encourage local authorities more. We have encouraged them as much as possible, but the schemes have to benefit long-term employment prospects in order to qualify.

Mr. Boyden

Has the right hon. Gentleman had consultations with the Board of Trade over this?