§ 142. Mr. Palmerasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he is taking, including legislation, to improve the environment for those who live in the centres of large cities of a present or former industrial character, including the reduction of pollution, the enclosing and beautifying of derelict sites, the planting of trees and the reclamation of lost streams and waterways.
§ Mr. Graham PageLocal authorities have extensive powers for improving the environment in large cities—for instance, powers for clearing slums, reclaiming derelict land, improving individual houses and whole residential districts, securing clean air and managing traffic. Substantial central government grants are available to support the use of many of these powers. I am encouraging all authorities to make as full a use as practicable of both powers and grants.