§ Mr. Whitakerasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether he will seek power to compel a local authority to repair and maintain a building of great architectural or historic value in its area.
Mr. MacDerrnotLocal authorities already have power to contribute towards the cost of repairing historic buildings or to acquire compulsorily those which are neglected. I would ask my hon. Friend to await the proposals shortly to be published in the Town and Country Planning Bill which will strengthen their hands in certain respects.