§ Mr. Goldingasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the delay in compulsory purchase inquiries in the Newcastle-under-Lyme area due to a shortage of inspectors; how many inspectors are needed for a full complement; and whether he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Graham PageThere are at present 247 inspectors available to hold these inquiries, though this represents part only of the casework with which190W the inspectors are called upon to deal. The number of inspectors remains short of requirements and recruitment is continuing. In the case of compulsory purchase orders made under the Housing Acts 1957–69 the period between submission and local inquiry is at present about eight months.