HC Deb 18 January 1982 vol 16 c10
12. Mr. Wigley

asked the Secretary of State for Wales if he is now in a position to give a substantive reply to the memorandum sent to him in March 1981 by Gwynedd county council on the question of the effects of holiday homes on the county, and with proposals to help to alleviate associated problems; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Wyn Roberts

We hope to be able to reply to the Gwynedd county council memorandum very shortly.

Mr. Wigley

With the problem of arson at second homes in Gwynedd, is it not a disgrace that 10 months have passed without a reply from the Welsh Office? What is the Minister's explanation for that waste of time and loss of opportunity?

Mr. Roberts

The Government's consideration of the issues has taken longer than expected. However, the hon. Gentleman will know from his meeting with me and the hon. Member for Merioneth (Mr. Thomas) on 18 November that many of the issues are complex and difficult. The arsonists should know that the Government will not be pressurised into any ill-considered action by irresponsible and criminal acts.

Mr. Garel-Jones

Will my hon. Friend confirm that second homes are not considered a serious problem by the people of Wales? Is it not a problem caused by arsonists, from which Plaid Cymru attempts to make squalid mileage for itself?

Mr. Roberts

My hon. Friend is right to say that only a very small proportion of the housing stock consists of second homes. He is also right to point out that the representations on that issue have largely come from Plaid Cymru.