HC Deb 25 November 1969 vol 792 cc183-4
15. Mr. Hooson

asked the Secretary of State for Wales why there has been a delay in providing the Newtown Development Corporation with the necessary funds for proceeding with its housing plans.

Mrs. White

The Development Corporation's first housing contract was approved on 23rd October, 1969. The delay was due mainly to the need to examine closely the design and layout of the development, the high cost and the overall financial viability of the project.

Mr. Hooson

Is the hon. Lady aware that there are three completed factories in Newtown but no houses for the workers in those factories? Is she further aware that Treasury delay in approving the money has caused embarrassment?

Mrs. White

It is expected that the first 10 houses in the contract will be ready for occupation by the end of March and the balance will be completed before the autumn. The second phase can then begin. I am aware of the local apprehensions, but I think the programme will meet the need.

Mr. William Edwards

Would my hon. Friend agree that everyone would have been more assured of the viability of the housing programme in this area had the Member for Parliament for the area supported the establishment of the development corporation in his own constituency?

Mrs. White

There are other reasons why one regrets the lack of support by the hon. and learned Member for Montgomery (Mr. Hooson). I could not honestly say that the housing programme was really affected by his attitude, one way or another.

Mr. Hooson

On a point of order. Is it correct for the hon. Member for Merioneth (Mr. William Edwards) deliberately to misrepresent my views on this? As the Secretary of State knows, I supported the setting up of the Newtown Development Corporation.

Mr. Speaker

Order. It was natural for the hon. and learned Gentleman to rise, but it is not a point of order.