HC Deb 26 January 1972 vol 829 c1390
38. Mr. Benyon

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has reached a decision concerning future office development in Greater London; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Peyton

My aim is to continue to encourage those concerns which can do so to operate outside London, while ensuring that those who can best contribute to the economy by being in London are able to operate or develop there.

Mr. Benyon

I thank my right hon. Friend for that reply. Does he agree that London of all the major capital cities of the Western world is in the best position to improve its environment because of its falling population? If the G.L.C. proposals to increase office employment by 75,000 in the next decade came to fruition, does he agree that there would be absolutely no possibility of reaching that goal?

Mr. Peyton

I assure my hon. Friend that the considerations he has just expressed are not ignored. The important thing is to have some kind of balanced measure of control in the South-East, where there is great congestion, and at the same time to give reasonable opportunities in London.

Mr. Crosland

May the House be informed whether the Minister responsible for transport has taken over planning responsibility from the Minister responsible for planning?

Mr. Peyton

That was announced some months ago. I do my best to satisfy any questions which the right hon. Gentleman has to ask on the subject.