HC Deb 13 March 1972 vol 833 cc20-1
27. Mr. John

asked the Secretary of State for Wales how many applications have been made for grants to clear up eyesores pursuant to his recent announcement.

Mr. Gibson-Watt

Applications for grant towards the cost of treating 236 sites have so far been received by the Welsh Office Derelict Land Unit under the new arrangements.

Mr. John

Since the Minister laid such store upon the effect on employment of the new grants, welcome as they are, will he tell us what effect the sanctioning of these schemes would have on unemployment?

Mr. Gibson-Watt

I cannot give specific figures but it is extremely encouraging that we have 236 sites already in answer to Operation Eyesore. The Welsh Office Derelict Land Unit has, inspected sites in the areas of 15 local authorities and the grant approvals are being issued.