§ 25. Mr. Mayhewasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he will make a statement on the future use of surplus land in Woolwich Arsenal.
§ Sir K. JosephFive hundred acres have been offered to the London County Council which I understand has already indicated its interest in this land. The future of the remainder of the Arsenal site is being urgently considered.
§ Mr. MayhewIs the Minister aware that, whatever is done about the Royal Ordnance factory, it is absolutely necessary that this whole area, and the neighbouring area of Erith, should be developed comprehensively, and that particular attention should be paid to local transport problems and the level of local employment? What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that this comprehensive development takes place?
§ Sir K. JosephI note that the L.C.C. and other local authorities are seized of these issues and I shall be glad to see them if they wish to discuss the matter with me.
§ Mr. MarshSince there is an estimated increase of population in this area which is mooted at about 85,000, would not the Minister agree that it would not be a bad idea to look at the possibility of improving transport conditions before the permission is given?
§ Sir K. JosephThis is all at a relatively early stage. The first thing to be decided was whether the War Office would continue to use the whole site. That decision having been taken, the L.C.C. and other authorities are able to consider an application.
§ Mr. MayhewIs not the Minister aware that the simple fact is that the War Office is distributing parts of the land to other Government Departments without proper consultation with the L.C.C.?
§ Sir K. JosephAll these matters are considered by all the interests concerned before the War Office takes any such action.