§ 5. Mr. Peter Millsasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government, in view of the problems affecting rural villages, what steps he is taking to increase the responsibilities of parish councils; what representations have been made to him by the National Association of Parish Councils on this question; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Minister of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Anthony Greenwood)I appreciate the hon. Gentleman's interest. The powers of parish councils will, of course, be reviewed in the light of the Royal Commission's Report.
I have not received any recent representations from the National Association of Parish Councils.
§ Mr. MillsWill the Minister bear in mind in any reorganisation what a vital rôle the parish councils play now and will play in the future? Will he consider that it might be possible for them to be notified of planning proposals, which would help solve many of the problems in rural parishes?
§ Mr. GreenwoodI have in the past paid tribute to the work the parish councils do in a rather limited sphere. The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that I cannot very well comment on this matter until we see the Report of the Royal Commission. I was not sure whether the second part of the hon. Gentleman's question suggested that I should enable the parish councils to see the report of the Royal Commission in advance. That is entirely a matter for the Royal Commission.