15. Mr. H. Wilsonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs when he expects to be able to give a decision on the application by the Kirkby Urban District Council for planning permission to develop land for housing purposes, in view of the lapse of 11 months since the public inquiry was held and the urgent need to rehouse overcrowded families in the Kirkby area.
§ Sir K. JosephShortly. My right hon. Friend found it necessary after the inquiry to seek information from Liverpool Corporation. He is now awaiting the comments of the parties on the corporation's reply.
Mr. WilsonIs the hon. Gentleman aware that when the Minister originally approved the boundaries for this urban district it was envisaged that this land would be used for overspill housing? Is he aware that people who have been moved from Liverpool into this Liverpool overspill area are very apprehensive that there may be a plan in the Minister's mind to require them to move once again to the new town of Skelmers-dale in a few years' time? Will the hon. Gentleman ensure that the Minister gives a reasonable decision on this matter so that rehousing can begin as quickly as possible?
§ Sir K. Joseph indicated assent.