§ 14. Mr. Stonesasked the Parliamentary Secretary for Science, as representing the Lord President of the Council, what consultations the Lord President had with the clerks to the urban district councils of Stanley add Consett in the county of Durham, on the occasion of his visit to the North-East and since, regarding the possibility and desirability of the siting of new industries in these two urban areas.
§ Mr. Denzil FreethMy noble Friend has had discussions with representatives of all the local authorities in the region, including the urban district councils of Consett and Stanley. His recommendations to his colleagues will take into 930 account the various points made to him in regard to the siting of new industry.
§ Mr. StonesIs the hon. Gentleman aware that recent conversations I have had with the clerks to Stanley Urban District Council and to Consett Urban District Council revealed that they are not aware of any consultation with them by the Lord President of the Council? Does not the hon. Gentleman agree that of all people concerned the clerks to the district councils are more conversant with the needs and opportunities in their districts, particularly as regards the siting of new industry? Would it not be a grave omission if the Lord President of the Council failed to take their views into consideration?
§ Mr. FreethMy noble Friend first sees the councils themselves. It is up to the councils to choose the people whom they wish to represent them, but my noble Friend is always pleased to receive representations and suggestions from people in the area with such wide experience of its problems as the clerks to the local authorities.