§ 29. Miss Fookesasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the policy of the Government with regard to expanded towns; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for the Environment (Mr. Michael Heseltine)As my hon. Friend will know, the Town Development Act, 1952 was introduced by a Conservative Government to enable local authorities to provide houses for families from the congested areas. Our belief that this is a sensible policy is unchanged and we intend to see that it is used to the best advantage.
§ Miss FookesIn view of that answer, would my hon. Friend please see, where projects are awaiting decision by the Minister, that action is taken quickly? I have in mind one case in which the Greater London Council, as the exporting authority, held a public inquiry last January, which is 12 months ago, and in which 1058 there has still been no answer from the Minister.
§ Mr. HeseltineIf my hon. Friend would like to write to me giving specific details, I will try to reply to her. We have to take into account a large number of factors but, compatible with the situation, we try to move with all reasonable speed.