HC Deb 03 March 1970 vol 797 c248
18. Mr. Moyle

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he has now received proposals from the Greater London Council for the allocation of public parks between the Greater London Council and the London borough councils.

Mr. Greenwood

Yes, Sir. A scheme was submitted by the Greater London Council last October, and I am now considering it.

Mr. Moyle

Would my right hon Friend bear in mind during his considerations that there is no general desire on the part of inhabitants of London to have their public parks mucked around with by the Greater London Council, and also that employees' negotiating machinery and excellent training schemes should be maintained for the future.

Mr. Greenwood

I have received many representations from a wide-based section of the population, including sports organisations, trade unions and other bodies representing workers involved in this matter. I think that my hon. Friend will realise that until I have had discussions with the G.L.C. and the London boroughs it is difficult to make any pronouncement.

Mr. Peter Walker

Can the Minister indicate how long he expects the consultations to take and when he anticipates being able to make an announcement?

Mr. Greenwood

This is a complicated problem, and we have not yet started discussions. But I realise the need for as rapid a decision as is consistent with the proper handling of it in order to remove the uncertainty which is hanging over the people employed.