HC Deb 16 March 1970 vol 798 cc3-4
3. Mr. Probert

asked the Secretary of State for Wales when he expects to publish the Welsh Council's recommendations on ways in which the industrial valleys of South Wales can be made more attractive.

The Minister of State, Welsh Office (Mrs. Eirene White)

My right hon. Friend hopes to publish the Welsh Council's brochure within the next few weeks.

Mr. Probert

Is my right hon. Friend aware that many of us are awaiting this report with interest, particularly to see whether its recommendations would enhance the excellent work done by the derelict land unit?

Mrs. White

I think that everyone will find the report very stimulating. My right hon. Friend also hopes to be able to arrange some mobile exhibitions in Wales to emphasise the points made in it.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I am sure that hon. Members on both sides of the House look forward to reading the report with interest. But, in discussing this important subject, is it not regrettable that the Prime Minister gave misleading figures on derelict land reclamation when speaking at Swansea and Merthyr Tydvil? Can the right hon. Lady confirm or deny that in 1964 403 acres of derelict land were reclaimed with and without grant?

Mrs. White

I cannot give an answer to that without notice. I have no reason to suppose that any misleading information was given.