§ 20. Mr. van Straubenzeeasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to make a final decision on his proposed amendments to the central Berkshire structure plan.
§ Mr. FoxThe final decisions will be taken when we have completed our consideration of the objections to the proposed modifications.
§ Mr. van StraubenzeeIn the meantime, can my hon. Friend confirm that he will 1301 take carefully into account the stern interview that he had yesterday with four Conservative Members of Parliament from the county of Berkshire and assure me that he will take account of the many representation that he has already received, and will receive, in this matter?
§ Mr. FoxI can assure my hon. Friend that, along with the many other objections—the closing date being tomorrow—the fullest consideration will be given to these matters before my right hon. Friend announces his approval.
§ Mr. Michael McNair-WilsonWill my hon. Friend bear in mind the deep concern in the county of Berkshire to the effect that the infrastructure costs for providing services for the projected 10,000 houses may fall upon the ratepayers of Berkshire?
§ Mr. FoxThe most forceful point that was made yesterday concerned the question of funds for the infrastructure. Certainly, within our proposals, those matters will be very fully considered.
§ Dr. GlynIs my hon. Friend aware that these proposals have caused more trouble in the county of Berkshire than any other proposals that I can recollect? However, I am quite certain that he will take into consideration all the objections that have been put to him, particularly the one mentioned by my hon. Friend the Member for Newbury (Mr. McNair- 1302 Wilson) about the infrastructure and who will pay for it.
§ Mr. FoxBrekshire is perhaps under more pressure than any other part of the country in certain respects. It is because of that that we shall give the fullest consideration to all these points.