HC Deb 21 February 1972 vol 831 cc885-6
19. Mr. Probert

asked the Secretary of State for Wales what is the present position of the proposals for a new town at Llantrisant.

Mr. Peter Thomas

I am considering the views which local authorities and other interested bodies have expressed on my proposals. I expect to make an announcement in the near future.

Mr. Probert

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that if his proposal for a new county of mid-Glamorgan becomes effective it is highly probable that that new county will give no support to a new town at Llantrisant? In view of this, will he now cancel any plans which are being considered by his Department and others and convert any public money saved thereby into improving the valley communities in East Glamorgan and West Monmouthshire?

Mr. Peter Thomas

The possible effect of local government reorganisation is one of the factors which I shall take into account in coming to my decision. I do not see any reason why the proposed mid-Glamorgan county should adversely affect my original proposal that there should be a new town at Llantrisant, but I will take into account all the representations which have been made to me and the consultations which have taken place.

Mr. George Thomas

Would not the Secretary of State be better advised to listen to my hon. Friend? If there is £300 million—or whatever the figure is—to be invested in this new town, would not that sum be better invested in the Rhondda, Merthyr and Aberdare Valleys, to encourage them?

Mr. Peter Thomas

The right hon. Gentleman is right in suggesting that about £300 million of public and private money is expected to be spent over a period. Llantrisant is particularly well placed in relation to the largest concentrations of valley populations and should provide additional employment opportunities for people living in the valley, thereby ensuring continued use of existing social investment there.