HC Deb 22 December 1964 vol 704 c223W
90. Sir J. Rodgers

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will lake steps to compel those areas which are making no attempt to provide sites for itinerant gypsies to play their part, in order not to add to the burden of those authorities which are doing what they can to cope with the problem in their own area.

Mr. MacColl

My right hon. Friend is holding discussions with the local authority associations to see what means can be adopted to ensure that an adequate number of sites is provided. He has no power to compel local authorities to provide sites.

91. Sir J. Rodgers

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government if he will discuss with county authorities the possibility of setting up temporary transit camps for gypsies on a county basis while arrangements are being made for smaller permanent encampments to be established throughout the country.

Mr. MacColl

Some county authorities are already providing sites on a county basis for gypsies and other travellers. It is for the counties themselves to assess the need and practicability of providing temporary sites for these people until more permanent arrangements can be made.