HC Deb 11 February 1977 vol 925 cc855-6W
Mr. Gerry Fowler

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what objective criteria he has used to measure the relative social deprivation of the old industrial area of East Shropshire, within which Telford New Town is situated, and of Birmingham.

Mr. Guy Barnett

No such measurement of the relative social deprivation has been made.

Mr. Gerry Fowler

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what are his proposals to increase the resources available to Telford Development Corporation for the clearance of the physical dereliction of much of the designated area of the new town.

Mr. Guy Barnett

Land reclamation is an integral part of the programme of work of Telford Development Corporation and as such is taken into account every year when financial allocations are made.

Mr. Gerry Fowler

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what are his proposals for making resources available to Telford Development Corporation, Salop County Council and the District Council of The Wrekin, to remedy the long-standing social deprivation of the indigenous population of Telford New Town.

Mr. Guy Barnett

Social deprivation is only one of a considerable number of factors in allocating resources, all of which are taken into account within the existing machinery.