§ 38. Mr. S. O. Daviesasked the Secretary of State for Wales what were the principles leading to the compilation and issue of the recent White Paper on Local Government in Wales.
§ Mr. Ifor DaviesThe principles were set out in the Introduction to the White Paper.
§ Mr. S. O. DaviesIs my hon. Friend aware that what is laid down in the beginning of that Paper is a complete disgrace and that the last matter the Secretary of State for Wales should have referred to was the Commission's Report of 1961?
§ Mr. Ifor DaviesWith reference to Merthyr Tydvil, the Local Government Commission for Wales in its 1963 Report analysed the matter in some detail. Circumstances have not materially changed since that time, and my right hon. Friend has accepted the Commission's analysis and conclusion.
§ Mr. Gynfor EvansIs the Minister aware that the proposed amalgamation of these counties will not add anything at all to their income, whereas their costs will remain constant?
§ Mr. Ifor DaviesThat is a matter of opinion, but these matters are already under discussion. My right hon. Friend is having discussions with everyone concerned. They are important, and it is very necessary that some action should be taken.