§ 26. Mr. Dormandasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received about additional grant for derelict land reclamation in the northern region; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Giles ShawMy Department has received representations from the North of England County Councils Association and from Durham county council asking for an increase in the allocations for derelict land in the northern region. As my right hon. Friend announced on 15 February,—[Vol. 37, c. 161–72]—the resources available for expenditure on reclamation in England as a whole have been increased from some £45.0 million this year to £75 million for 1983–84. Regional allocations will be announced as soon as possible.
§ 47. Mr Campbell-Savoursasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received from the north of England county council association on derelict land reclamation in the northern region.
§ Mr. Giles ShawThe association wrote to the Department on 21 January. It raised a number of points, including special reclamation problems of the northern region, difficulties experienced due to the annual bid system and to the priority given to category A reclamation schemes, the amount of derelict land in the region and delay in approving certain schemes for grant. The Department will be replying to the association in the near future and I will send the hon. Member a copy.