HC Deb 29 March 1984 vol 57 cc290-1W
Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many times since October 1981 he and his departmental Ministers or their predecessors have met (a) Councillor Sir Trevor Jones and (b) Councillor John Hamilton of Liverpool city council on official business.

Mr. Patrick Jenkin

No exact record has been kept of the numerous times my predecessors and departmental Ministers have met the leader of Liverpool city council since October 1981. I have met the present leader, Councillor John Hamilton, on three separate occasions —8 July 1983, 29 September 1983, and 22 February 1984.

My noble Friend the Minister for Local Government met Councillor Hamilton with me on 22 February and again on 5 March 1984 in connection with the port of Liverpool.

Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many visits he and his departmental Ministers have made to investigate bad housing conditions in Liverpool since 1 October 1981.

Mr. Patrick Jenkin

There have been numerous visits by Ministers to Liverpool since October 1981. Ministers have taken every opportunity to acquaint themselves with the problems of the area, including bad housing conditions. I refer the hon. Member also to my answer to his question on 27 March 1984, at column129.

Mr. Wareing

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is preparing emergency legislation aimed at replacing Liverpool city council with appointees nominated by and accountable to him; and if he will list those outside the Government with whom he has discussed his intentions.

Mr. Patrick Jenkin

It is for Liverpool city council to make a legal budget and rate for 1984–85 to the benefit of their employees and the people of Liverpool. I am, of course, aware of the threats made by the leadership of the Labour majority group on the council to act irresponsibly. I have naturally considered what action might be taken by the Government and others in the light of any irresponsible decision which had serious consequences for Liverpool. There is, however, no advantage in speculating about what steps might be taken, especially when the council still has the opportunity to comply with the law.