§ 24. Mr. Fred Evansasked the Secretary of State for Wales if he will now publish the findings of the inquiry into the central development area of Cardiff.
§ Mr. Peter ThomasI am considering the Inspector's report. His findings and my views will be made public as soon as possible.
§ Mr. EvansIs the Secretary of State aware that people in Cardiff in particular, and people throughout Wales generally since Cardiff is their capital city, are very concerned that the findings of this inquiry should be published as soon as possible? Is he further aware that many people in Wales feel that the findings should have been available before the inquiry into the Llantrisant New Town began since it was felt that, whatever happens in regard to the Cardiff Development Plan, developments at Llantrisant are bound to influence the situation? Will he not accept that there are valid criticisms to be made of the whole approach both to the Cardiff Development Plan and to Llantrisant New Town?
§ Mr. Peter ThomasThe Cardiff Development Plan is a complex matter and the inquiry lasted 14 weeks. It ended in March, 1971. The inspector did not report until January, 1972. I have had the report for five months and.
21 in view of the complexity of the matter, I do not regard this as an excessive delay. I hope to reach a decision as soon as possible.
§ Mr. George ThomasIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that, although we appreciate the difficulty and complexity of this problem, it is a matter of major concern to the people of Cardiff that a decision on this matter should not be too long delayed? Will the give a guarantee that he will come to the House to make a statement about his decision before the House rises at the end of next month?
§ Mr. Peter ThomasI agree with the right hon. Gentleman that this is a matter of major concern to the people of Cardiff. I have no intention of delaying a decision any longer than is absolutely necessary. I hope that I shall be able to reach a decision—I can take it no further thanthis—before we go into recess.