§ Mr. Arthur Lewisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services what plans he has for integrating social service offices in the Manor Park area at Woodgrange House; what approaches he made to the London Borough of Newham in this matter, and what was their reply; what approach was made to voluntary organisations representing the sick and disabled, 40W and with what results; why the Members of Parliament for the area were not approached; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. EnnalsPlans for integrating the local offices in the London Borough of Newham were first submitted to the local advisory committee in October, 1968, and were finally approved by the committee on 5th November, 1969. The committee includes representatives from the local authority and many other local organisations, including some representing the interests of the sick and disabled.
My hon. Friend will know that I wrote to him and to other hon. Friends representing the area, on 31st October. Details of the proposals were sent to the town clerk of the London Borough of Newham on 24th October. He replied on 18th December, asking for them to be reconsidered. We are still considering the points raised, and I will write to my hon. Friend shortly on the matter.