DEPARTMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT (MINISTERS) (Hansard, 15 December 1970)

HC Deb 15 December 1970 vol 808 cc1112-3 1113

§ Q3. Mr. Clinton Davis
asked the Prime Minister if he will reduce the number of Ministers in the Department for the Environment.

§ The Prime Minister
No, Sir.

§ Mr. Davis
Is not the Prime Minister aware that the Secretary of State for the Environment has refused to give an undertaking that he will not take out of rent control properties with a rateable value of up to £250 in London and up to £100 elsewhere, that he has abdicated total responsibility for any thinking on rent legislation to the Francis Committee? In those circumstances, why have so many incompetent Ministers? Let us have at least one competent one.

§ The Prime Minister
It is the policy of Her Majesty's Government.