HC Deb 06 November 1962 vol 666 cc775-6
9. Mr. Lubbock

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs What progress he has made with the study of the main planning problems likely to arise in South-Eastern England over the next twenty years.

Mr. Corfield

Provisional estimates have been made of the nature and size of the population increase to be expected in the South-East, and of the likely overspill from the London conurbation. On this basis work is proceeding on the question how and where the needs can best be met. The study has far-reaching implications, and it will be some time before my right hon. Friend is ready to announce any conclusions.

Mr. Lubbock

Will the Parliamentary Secretary pay attention in this study to the deficiencies in our transport system, our schools and other amenities, which are already suffering? Will he bear these factors in mind when considering planning appeals which involve further residential development in these areas and which also involve a worsening of the situation?

Mr. Corfield

Yes. All these are matters for consideration, but I would impress on the hon. Gentleman that the object of this study is not to plan the South-East in detail but to provide the framework within which the local authorities can formulate their own development plans.

Mr. J. Wells

Is my hon. Friend aware that the train services in mid-Kent are much improved and that the education service in Kent is among the finest in the country?