HC Deb 25 February 1964 vol 690 cc224-5
22. Mr. Milne

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what study he has made of the resolution passed at a meeting of Northumberland County District Council on 23rd January regarding local government reorganisation, a copy of which has been sent to him by the hon. Member for Blyth; and if he will make a statement.

The Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs (Sir Keith Joseph)

Most of the resolution is devoted to criticisms of the Local Government Commission's proposals for Tyneside. These objections will no doubt be pursued at the local inquiry which is to open in Newcastle next month. I cannot comment on them in advance. As for the last point in the resolution, I believe that re-organisation in some form is urgently needed if local government is to play a fully effective part in the long term rehabilitation of the North-East.

Mr. Milne

It is pleasing to note that an inquiry is being held but is the Minister aware that the severance of North Tyneside from the rest of Northumberland flies in the face of the recommendations of the White Paper on Regional Development arising from the visits of the Lord President of the Council to the North-East? If the Government are to be converted to planning, let it be proper planning. Will the Minister undertake, following this inquiry, to receive a deputation from Northumberland County Council to discuss this matter?

Sir K. Joseph

I do not accept the implication drawn by the hon. Gentleman from the White Paper. All the arguments that lie behind the hon. Gentleman's supplementary question can be put at the inquiry. It is my job to consider the findings of the inquiry. I fear that I cannot undertake to receive a deputation.

Mr. Milne

Is the Minister aware that the main point is the question of the linking up of local government boundaries with the need to bring new industries to the North-East? These are two Government recommendations which are in direct conflict with each other and which are preventing the industrial development of the area. This needs looking into.