§ Mr. Masonasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs to what extent he is satisfied with the progress being made to level or beautify spoil heaps; and if he will offer further assistance and financial aid to rid the countryside of these eyesores, paying particular attention to coalmining areas.
§ Mr. RipponThe hon. Member will appreciate from my Answers to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent, South (Mr. Ellis Smith) on 11th April that schemes for reclaiming or improving the appearance of spoil heaps are being carried58W out by local authorities as part of their programmes for the rehabilitation of derelict land. I hope that this work will continue on an increasing scale. Minor works for improving the appearance of certain colliery spoil heaps to which Circular No. 26/59 refers are undertaken by the National Coal Board, and my right hon. Friend has reminded local planning authorities of the provisions of this circular. He is preparing a booklet describing schemes carried out for the treatment of derelict land, including spoil heaps, and is always ready to assist local authorities with advice on the preparation of schemes, and to consider applications for grant under section 5 of the Local Employment Act, 1960.