HC Deb 29 January 1963 vol 670 c744
8. Mr. Swingler

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs when he expects a decision to be reached on the use of the 720 acres of land remaining unused in the War Department's hands at Swynnerton; and what authorities are at present considering the future of this site.

Sir K. Joseph

The future use of this site is being considered as part of the regional study of the West Midlands which is now being made by the Government. Work on this is being pressed ahead but I cannot yet say when a decision is likely to be taken.

Mr. Swingler

Is the Minister aware that this work has been pressed ahead for a couple of years and that we have had that sort of reply a bit too often? While we appreciate the importance of taking the right decision in the use of this site, is the right hon. Gentleman not aware of the crying need for both the development of industry and housing in north Staffordshire and the urgency for his reaching a conclusion on this matter after the couple of years that have already been wasted?

Sir K. Joseph

There are a number of interests to be reconciled in coming to any of these major planning decisions, but I recognise the force of what the hon. Member says.

Mrs. Slater

Cannot the right hon. Gentleman give some idea of how long this consideration will take? It is about three years since a deputation visited this site, which is a very large one and could be used to great advantage?

Sir K. Joseph

I cannot answer the hon. Lady's Question in full today. It will be done as soon as possible.