§ 14. Mr. Alec Jonesasked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he is satisfied 183 with the rate of progress of clearing derelict land in Wales; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. George ThomasGood progress is being made. Fifty-eight schemes for grant involving nearly 1,400 acres have been approved. Their cost is over £3 million and grant of about £2,250,000 has been approved. A total of 35 schemes have been completed and 500 acres of land reclaimed. A further 100 schemes are at various stages of consideration.
§ Mr. JonesWhile thanking my right hon. Friend for that most encouraging reply, and while trusting that progress will continue, may I ask him whether he is satisfied that the National Coal Board and British Rail are doing all they should be doing to clear up their abandoned sites?
§ Mr. ThomasI am not a person easily satisfied. I will look into the matters my hon. Friend has raised.
§ Mr. GowerWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for that reply may I ask him whether, with the run-down of much of the coal industry and the need for new industry in the South Wales valleys, he might contemplate giving this particular need an even higher priority in future? Is he aware that this might be one of the best ways to improve the prospects of the South Wales area?
§ Mr. ThomasThe record of Her Majesty's Government with regard to derelict land unit activities in Wales is one of spectacular success. It is outstanding how much has been achieved. If we can go faster we will.