§ Sir Anthony MeyerTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he has any plans to review the new town responsibilities of the Development Board for Rural Wales; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Peter WalkerThe Mid Wales Development Council and its successor body, the Development Board for Rural Wales, were charged with developing Newtown in Powys using new town powers. Population has risen consistently and is now close to the target level of 11,000. With the task of developing Newtown almost complete, I am reviewing the appropriate timetable for winding up the board's new town responsibilities consulting with the board and with the relevant local authorities as necessary. I expect to make a further announcement later this year.