§ 32. Mr. Dormandasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will increase the grant to local authorities in the northern region for the clearance of dereliction; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John PattenI announced on 28 January that resources nationally for derelict land reclamation in 1987–88 will be about £81.14 million. Of this, £13.75 million or 18 per cent. has been allocated to the local authorities in the Department's northern region. This is £1 million more than their allocation at the beginning of 1986–87. I am unable to say whether further resources can be made available during the year.