§ 19. Mr. Boydenasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs, in view of the concern of the National Parks Commission at the proliferation of aerial masts in areas of great natural beauty, what steps he is taking to ensure that whenever possible the masts are shared.
§ Mr. RipponInter-Departmental machinery already exists to ensure that the feasibility of sharing aerial masts is considered before they are erected.
§ Mr. BoydenWhat representations has the National Parks Commission made to the hon. Gentleman's Department about this matter? Is he taking more notice of them than he is taking of recommendation No. 8 in regard to county councils and footpaths?
§ Mr. RipponThere were representations made, of course, in the Twelfth Report of the National Parks Commission. The Commissioners drew attention 189 to their concern about the matter. We are endeavouring to meet their representations, but there are very great technical difficulties in marrying up installations of this kind.