§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his Department's policy with regard to local authorities with designated status which make no provision for protection for traveller mothers.
§ Mr. KeyThe Secretary of State expects those authorities which are designated under the Caravan Sites Act 1968 to use their powers humanely, and with compassion; and he expects authorities with a shortfall of authorised gipsy sites to head Government advice that they should not needlessly move gipsies from place to place.
§ Mr. CohenTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what plans his Department has for ensuring that there is adequate site provision in London to meet the needs of the increasing population of gipsies and travellers.
§ Mr. KeyThe Caravan Sites Act 1968 placed a duty on London borough councils, as well as County and metropolitan district councils, to provide adequate sites for gipsies residing in or resorting to their areas. The Secretary of State is keen for all authorities to fulfil their duty under the 1968 Act as speedily as possible. The Government provide 100 per cent. grant aid towards the reasonable capital costs of site construction.