§ 10. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether there exists any arrangement for regular meetings of the Easington Rural District Council and the Peterlee Parish Council with the Peterlee Corporation on matters concerning the new town in which the local authorities have an interest; and if he is aware that the Corporation has refused to meet the Peterlee Parish Council.
§ Sir K. JosephMy right hon. Friend understands that meetings with the development corporation or their officers are arranged quite frequently to discuss questions connected with the functions of either council. He understands, however, that the corporation considers it inappropriate to discuss rent policy with the parish council, and on this he is disposed to agree with the Corporation.
§ Mr. ShinwellApart from consultations on rent policy, which, after all, concern the parish council as an elected 6 body, is the hon. Gentleman aware that my information is that the parish council has frequently approached the corporation for consultations on important matters but the corporation has refused to see it? Will the hon. Gentleman suggest to his right hon. Friend that he might advise the corporation, in the interests of good relations in the area, that it might see the parish council when it asks?
§ Sir K. JosephIf that is so, my right hon. Friend will consider the matter. However, my information is that there have been five meetings of officers with the parish council in the past year and a number of more infrequent informal meetings before that. I will look into the matter.