Wales

HC Deb 08 March 1965 vol 708 cc8-10

12. Mr. Gower

asked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources what survey he is making of the resources of Wales; and if he will make a statement.

34. Mr. A. J. Williams

asked the Minister of Land and Natural Resources when he expects to complete his survey of the natural resources of Wales; and whether he will make a statement.

Mr. Skeffington

My Department will be closely connected with the work of the Welsh Planning Board, which is concerned with the general problem of resources in Wales.

Mr. Gower

Will anything be revealed about the survey in the next six months or the next year—or in a longer period, perhaps five or six years—to give us some guidance? My second question concerns the relationship between his Department and the Advisory Council concerned with Welsh water resources. Will he tell us something about that?

Mr. Skeffington

In all of these matters the Department's interests will be represented upon the appropriate regional Welsh Board. As for the question of the publication time, I cannot give any date on this occasion, but obviously information will be given as soon as possible.

Mr. Williams

Is my right hon. Friend aware that the people of Wales welcome the fact that work is at last under way on the survey which is so essential to basic planning? Is my right hon. Friend also aware that amongst the natural resources of Wales are what are now industrial waste lands—such as the 1,000 acres in the town of Swansea? Is he aware that the people of Wales are desperately eager that these waste lands should be put to further industrial use?

Mr. Skeffington

My right hon. Friend is very much aware of the considerations mentioned. These are engaging our attention, and we hope to make some proposals as soon as practicable.

Mr. McBride

Will my right hon. Friend discuss with the Secretary of State for Wales the provision of financial assistance to communities such as Swansea Borough Council, who have a devastated area of 1,175 acres stretching nearly to the middle of the town which is like the former playground of the war lords? Is he aware that for decades they have sought to have this removed? Will he consult his right hon. Friend over this matter?

Mr. Skeffington

My right hon. Friend is working in close harmony with the Secretary of State for Wales on these matters. The Minister is very well aware of the tremendous financial hardship which is involved, for any local authorities which want to try to reclaim these waste lands have this difficulty. This, again, is a matter upon which the most practical information is being sought.