HC Deb 05 May 1971 vol 816 cc1354-5
11. Mr. Galbraith

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what financial contribution the Government is prepared to make towards improving the environment in the Glasgow area; and if he will define the circumstances in which this help will be made available.

Mr. Younger

As indicated in reply to a Question by my hon. Friend on 31st March we are prepared to make available for improving the environment in Glasgow up to £1 million a year in Government grants for each of the next five years. We are discussing with the Corporation the detailed arrangements, including the preparation of the programme of works to be covered, which we have to agree with the corporation.—[Vol. 814, c. 394–5.]

Mr. Galbraith

Is my hon. Friend aware that, if this job is done properly, Scotland will have, in Edinburgh and Glasgow, the first-class examples of eighteenth and nineteenth century development, which will be not only a delightful environment for the inhabitants, but a valuable tourist attraction? Will he do all he can to encourage this good work?

Mr. Younger

I am very grateful to my hon. Friend, particularly in view of his known keen interest in this subject. I hope that this special grant provided by the Government will enable work to be done which would not otherwise have been done.

Mr. Ross

The hon. Gentleman referred to a special grant. Which legislation does this come under? Apart from the £1 million from the centre, what expenditure does this involve for Glasgow?

Mr. Younger

This remains to be seen in the details being worked out with the corporation, but much of this will be done under the Local Government Grants (Social Need) Act, 1969, and some of the other work under this special grant may be done under existing legislation. But all the money involved will be extra to what would have been given in any case.