§ Mr. Greenwayasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will approve plans for a gipsy encampment at Southall gas works in the London borough of Ealing; if he will arrange funding for the encampment; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MacfarlaneThe selection of a site for a gipsy encampment is a matter for the borough council and does not require the approval of the Secretary of State under the Caravan Sites Act 1968. The Secretary of State was asked to use his powers to intervene under planning legislation but he declined to do so. I have not received an application for a grant in respect of this site; any such application would be considered on its merits.