HC Deb 01 March 1971 vol 812 cc1201-2
8. Mr. John

asked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he will make a statement on the implementation of the Buchanan Report proposing a new town at Llantrisant.

Mr. Peter Thomas

I am not yet in a position to do so.

Mr. John

Does the right hon. and learned Gentleman recognise that there is a considerable feeling of anxiety and uncertainty in the areas about whether the Government propose to implement this Report. Therefore, will the right hon. and learned Gentleman give the matter urgent consideration and give some undertaking as to the time scale for an announcement?

Mr. Peter Thomas

I well understand that people are anxious to know what the decision will be. The hon. Gentleman will appreciate that there are very complex issues involved and that the whole matter must be very carefully studied.

Mr. Probert

Is the Secretary of State aware that there is considerable opposition in South Wales to the implementation of this plan and to what is considered to be, if it were to be implemented, a complete wastage of essential capital? Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman consult all the local authorities concerned before reaching a decision?

Mr. Peter Thomas

I agree with the hon. Gentleman that there were a large number of objections to the proposal, but there are many powerful supporters These matters must be considered very carefully and it would be wrong, when such a large sum of money is involved, and also when so many repercussions are likely to arise from such a decision, to take a hasty decision.