§ 65. Dame Irene Wardasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether the estimates for the North-East Coast for pit heap reclamations for the years 1965–66 and 1966–67 will be met in full; and what are the sums involved.
§ Mr. MacCollLocal authorities in development districts in the North-East propose to clear 1,058 acres of spoil heaps in the year ending 31st December, 1966. Information is not available to show how much of this acreage is included in schemes already accepted for grant, but I know of no reason why grant should44W not be payable for all approved schemes. Proposals for clearance for the year ending 31st December, 1967 have not yet been submitted.
§ 66. Dame Irene Wardasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what response he has made to the proposal put forward by the North Regional Committee of Planning Officers for an alteration in the policy at present operative for the rehabilitation of pit heaps so as to add to the visual amenities essential to attract new industries to the North.
§ Mr. MacCollA deputation from the North Regional Planning Committee met my right hon. Friend, the Joint Minister of State at the Board of Trade on 8th June to discuss matters of policy relating to grant for treating derelict land in the Northern Region. My Department was represented. These included suggestions for altering the arrangements applying to the treatment of pit heaps. My right hon. Friends, the Joint Minister of State, Board of Trade and the Minister of of Housing and Local Government will consider the deputation's proposals.