HC Deb 01 February 1971 vol 810 cc1244-5
27. Mr. Ellis

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he is satisfied with the progress made in Wales towards complying with the requirements of the Caravan Sites Act; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I am reasonably satisfied. I refer the hon. Member to my right hon. and learned Friend's reply of 2nd November last to the hon. Member for Flint, East (Mr. Barry Jones). Welsh Office officials are keeping in close touch with the responsible local authorities.—[Vol. 805, c. 303–4.]

Mr. Ellis

Would the Minister of State say what advice his Department has given to the local authorities, for example, by information from surveys to determine where the problem is greatest, what advice is being given on the use of, for instance, model rules for sites, and what steps are being taken to educate the public in the matter?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

There has been a varied reaction to this problem from the various local authorities in Wales. All I can say is that my right hon. and learned Friend is aware of the position in Denbighshire, and officers of the Welsh Office are in touch with the county council, which is, I know, anxious to solve the problem.

Mr. William Edwards

On the question of caravans in Wales, has not the time come for the Minister to give a direction to local authorities to prohibit an increase in the number of caravan sites or the granting of any new licences within two miles of the Welsh coastline?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

The provisions of the Caravan Sites Act to which the Question refers deal with tinkers and gypsies.