§ 13. Mr. Alec Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Wales what progress has been made with the clearance of derelict lands in the Borough of Rhondda.
§ Mr. Cledwyn HughesSince the Local Employment Act, 1960, Rhondda Borough Council has been authorised to carry out two schemes for the clearance of about seven acres of derelict land. I am now considering applications by the Council under the Industrial Development Act, 1966, for an additional four schemes covering 61 acres.
§ Mr. JonesCan my right hon. Friend indicate the amount and details of the assistance given to local authorities to undertake such reclamation schemes?
§ Mr. HughesYes, Sir. The Derelict Land Unit of the Welsh Office has discussed the council's problems and offered assistance in the preparation of schemes. A circular has recently been issued asking local authorities for their programmes of future work on the clearance of derelict land. I will certainly study carefully what my hon. Friend said on this 1350 subject in his excellent maiden speech yesterday.
§ Mr. Gibson-WattWhen the Secretary of State gets an answer from the local authorities, will he be prepared either to place in the Library or to present to Members of the House a progress report about how this problem of derelict land is being dealt with in the Principality?
§ Mr. HughesWe have opportunities to give progress reports at Question Time in this way, because invariably there are Questions from hon. Members about this subject. I will, however, consider the hon. Member's suggestion.