HC Deb 18 March 1971 vol 813 cc1643-4
Q2. Mr. Michael McNair-Wilson

asked the Prime Minister if he will make an official visit to the London Borough of Waltham Forest.

The Prime Minister

I have no plans to do so, Sir.

Mr. McNair-Wilson

My right hon. Friend's answer will very much disappoint my constituents, who would make him most welcome. Is he aware of the remarkable success story of the Waltham Forest Conservative Council—[HON. MEMBERS: "No."]—which, in the past three years, has maintained expenditure on education and social services, has built 2,000 new houses, seven new schools, and one old people's home, has just introduced a concessionary fares scheme, and this year will not increase either rates or council house rents? Would he not agree —[HON. MEMBERS: "Too long."]—that this is a good example of Conservative local government giving the ratepayer value for money?

The Prime Minister

From what my hon. Friend says, the record of his council appears to be so commendable that the Opposition can do nothing except resort to their usual tactics of trying to scream him down.