§ Mr. McKayasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he is aware that, according to proposals of the Local Government Boundaries Commission for the Tyneside area, seven urban districts had in 1961 an average population of 27,000 and an average rateable value of £299,000, and the Longbenton urban district had a population of 47,000 and a rateable value of £431,000; if, in view of the fact that the proposed New Killingworth estate will result in greater population and increased valuation in the near future, he will give special consideration to the Longbenton Council's representations about its reduction in power and in population, by transfers, to 15,800; and if he will receive a deputation on the matter.
§ Sir K. JosephI have not yet received the report and final proposals of the Local Government Commission for the Tyneside Special Review Area, though I expect to do so this summer. Local authorities will then have an opportunity to make representations to me and, if need be, I will arrange for a public local inquiry.