HC Deb 27 April 1983 vol 41 cc865-6
26. Mr. Dykes

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what recent representations he has received from the National House Builders Federation concerning proposals for building on Metropolitan green belt sites in and around Greater London.

Mr. Giles Shaw

Representations have been received from the House Builders Federation that a number of sites included in the London green belt should be released for building. I shall send my hon. Friend a copy of my reply.

Mr. Dykes

In the meantime, can my hon. Friend confirm the Government's attitude towards the suggestions in the federation's comments that the green belt is sacrosanct? Does he agree that it is much more important to redevelop inner city sites in London, including the docklands, for housing?

Mr. Shaw

I endorse my hon. Friend's view that many inner city sites in London, especially the docklands, must be redeveloped as soon as possible. I take note of the federation's views, which are continually discussed by myself and my right hon. Friend.