HC Deb 01 March 1966 vol 725 cc1074-5
18. Mr. Gibson-Watt

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what further steps he is taking to solve the problem of the dumping of derelict vehicles.

60. Mr. Longden

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what results have accrued as a result of his Circular 8/65 concerning the disposal of abandoned motor vehicles.

Mr. MacColl

Since the issue of Circular 8/65 the Department have continued joint discussions with trade and local authority organisations. Many local authorities have acted on the advice in the circular or are considering how best to do so. The scrap metal and car-breaking trades are interested in extending their activities and there is now better contact between them and local authorities. The situation is constantly under review but the progress already made is encouraging.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

While thanking the hon. Gentleman for his Answer, may I ask if he will tell the House what he is going to do about the derelict junk on his own Front Bench?

Mr. Manuel

That question was a waste of time.

Mr. MacColl

I think the derelict junk on the Front Bench will thrive and blossom between now and 31st March.

Mr. Longden

Can the Minister tell us what results have actually accrued as the result of his circular, particularly in Hertfordshire?

Mr. MacColl

I think that most authorities which have a problem of any size are having discussions, as they are having in Hertfordshire, either for a joint effort, to have common services and sharing them between them, or by agreements with scrap merchants, where that can be done.