HC Deb 23 June 1971 vol 819 cc294-5W
Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is aware that the Council of Ministers of the European Economic Community is now considering proposals whereby the cost of constructing and maintaining roads, railways, and inland waterways should fall on those using them; to what extent these proposals for a common system of users' taxes as part of a common transport policy will have to be adopted in Great Britain on entry into the European Economic Community; and with what costs to the users and the Government.

Mr. Peyton

A memorandum containing such proposals, with a time scale of 10–15 years in mind, was submitted by the Commission to the Council of Ministers on 29th March, 1971. Until the Council has adopted legislation to give effect to the Commission's proposals, they are not binding on member States.

Mr. Arthur Lewis

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will obtain a detailed list of rents and rates charged for one, two and three bed-roomed houses and flats, both private and publicly owned, in each of the Common Market countries, and, on a basis of allowing for the cost of living, compare these with similar charges as made in the United Kingdom as at 16th June, 1971.

Mr. Channon

No.