§ 28. Mr. Shinwellasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs whether, with a view to improving amenities and providing employment, he will accede to the request of the Easington Rural District Council for financial help at the Crimdon health resort.
§ The Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs (Sir Keith Joseph)Revenue expenditure on any schemes undertaken by the Council, including loan charges, will attract rate deficiency grant as long as the local authority qualifies for this grant; I have no power to make a specific grant far the purposes in mind.
§ Mr. ShinwellHas the right hon. Gentleman received any request from the council for financial assistance? Is he aware that it would make a modest contribution to relieving the unemployment situation in the area, apart from the fact that the amenities provided are exceptional and are utilised by hundreds of thousands throughout the area?
§ Sir K. JosephI have had a letter from the clerk to which I shall be replying. I understand the attitude of the right hon. Member, but the powers of my Department are limited. I hope the council will consider that the merits are such that it may go ahead on its own.