HC Deb 03 July 1974 vol 876 cc373-4
12. Mr. Milne

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will issue a circular to local authorities advising councils to extend membership of committees covering new towns and special areas to councillors representing the towns and areas in question.

The Minister for Planning and Local Government (Mr. John Silkin)

I am sure this is a point local authorities will have in mind without the need for advice from my right hon. Friend.

Mr. Milne

Is my right hon. Friend aware that that is a rather disappointing reply, because in my constituency we are dealing with a new town that is not designated under the New Towns Act? Because of the emergence of the new authorities, it means that democratically-elected representatives in that new town are prevented from taking part in discussions on the town's development.

Mr. Silkin

My hon. Friend will appreciate that it is not a very good idea for the Government always to be giving advice to local authorities, but I think that his is a particular case and I should like to discuss it with him if he is willing.

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