HC Deb 03 December 1970 vol 807 cc1448-9
14. Mr. Fowler

asked the Secretary of State for the Home Department what plans he has for the future of the Community Relations Commission.

Mr. Maudling

For it to continue to carry out its statutory functions under the Race Relations Act, 1968. As already announced, the Commission is reviewing ways of strengthening its organisation and training arrangements. The results of this review should provide a solid foundation on which to plan the development of community relations work.

Mr. Fowler

I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply and congratulate him on appointing Mr. Mark Bonham Carter as the new Chairman of the Commission. Will my right hon. Friend point out to Mr. Bonham Carter that one of the most urgent tasks facing the Commission is to define the essential task of the Commission and, once he has done so, to make it known to the public?

Mr. Maudling

I look forward to an early discussion with Mr. Bonham Carter about the future of the Commission when he has had a chance to get into the saddle.

Mr. Freeson

In areas where local authorities are not making the best use of the urban aid programme, will the right hon. Gentleman consider the possibility of providing the Community Relations Commission with funds for specific project works in areas of stress?

Mr. Maudling

It is important always to insist that the urban aid programme is for urban areas of special need and not solely for immigrant areas. If the hon. Gentleman has any suggestions to make, I should be happy to receive them.