Commission for the New Towns

HC Deb 31 October 1984 vol 65 cc1034-5W

Mr. Heddle

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement about the future of the Commission for the New Towns; and what functions he proposes for it after March 1985.

Sir George Young

The Commission for the New Towns takes over, by statute, the assets and liabilities of new town corporations in England and Wales when they are wound up and will progressively assume these responsibilities as the remaining development corporations are wound up. Power to realise these assets was provided in the Local Government, Planning and Land Act 1980. The Government will be proposing legislation to clarify the purpose and functions of the commission and, as announced in September 1979, to provide for its eventual wind-up.