§ 1. Mr. Fowlerasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what would be the estimated cost of extending to all local authorities the 85 per cent. Government grants made to local authorities in the development areas for the restoration of derelict land.
The Minister of State, Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Frederick Wiley)The total cost to the Exchequer of making 85 per cent. grant available to local authorities outside development areas is estimated at £35 million. Of this figure £14 million represents the cost of raising the existing levels of grant outside these areas to 85 per cent.
§ Mr. FowlerIs my right hon. Friend aware of the estimate of the National Coal Board that two-thirds of our derelict land could be restored in 10 years at a cost of £40 million? Would not such an expenditure be justified from the point of view of improving the aesthetic appearance of the country and that of saving agricultural land from development?
§ Mr. WilleyNot only am I aware of that estimate but also of the work which the National Coal Board has done in 192 expediting the clearance of derelict land. However, we have to consider this along with other priorities.