§ 61. Miss Boothroydasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on his new responsibilities for the metropolitan borough of Sandwell; and what plans he has for assisting the local authority in tackling the problems of the area.
§ Mr. KingI have invited Sandwell metropolitan borough council to participate in setting up a small joint task force under the urban programme to tackle the particular problems of Smethwick. I am pleased that Sandwell metropolitan borough council has accepted this invitation. The task force will be responsible for bringing together public and private sector resources in a comprehensive action programme.
My right hon. Friend is currently considering Sandwell's claim for enhanced status under the urban programme in the light of the 1981 census results, and hopes to be able to make an announcement before Christmas.