HC Deb 07 November 1979 vol 973 cc171-2W
82. Sir Derek Walker-Smith

asked the Minister for the Civil Service whether investigation has been carried out to establish the adequacy of housing and school accommodation to meet the needs of persons affected by the proposed dispersal to Bootle of elements of the Health and Safety Executive; and whether he is satisfied as to such adequacy.

Mr. Channon

As I told the House last July, the composition of the dispersal to Bootle has not yet been settled.—[Vol. 971, c. 902–3.] The Government hope to make an announcement about this shortly.

When this dispersal was first planned by the previous Administration, I understand that discussions were held by the Health and Safety Executive with the local authorities concerned in Merseyside on a wide range of subjects, including housing and education. The local authorities made it clear that they were ready to co-operate and provide necessary assistance in the event of civil servants moving into the area.