§ 6. Mr. Boydenasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what new plans he has for the reclamation of derelict land in the North-East as a means of alleviating unemployment.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethMy noble Friend is considering with his colleagues the efficacy of the present arrangements, including the level of grant available for schemes in development districts under the Local Employment Act. My right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government is asking all planning authorities in the region to submit urgently a programme of reclamation schemes which could be started soon.
§ Mr. BoydenWill the Parliamentary Secretary see that his noble Friend, puts the reclamation of derelict land before the provision of banqueting rooms? Is he aware that the Local Employment Act in relation to reclaiming industrial sites has been practically useless and that under the general Act very little has been done in this regard? Will he press very hard for a higher rate of grant and better organisation?
§ Mr. FreethAs my right hon. Friend the Chancellor of the Exchequer said on 4th February, this is being considered.