Local Authority Expenditure

Oral Answers to Questions — Wales – in the House of Commons at 12:00 am on 1 March 1971.

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Photo of Mr Denzil Davies Mr Denzil Davies , Llanelli 12:00, 1 March 1971

asked the Secretary of State for Wales whether he has received any representations from local authorities and other interested bodies about the application of the provisions of circular No. 116/70 (Welsh Office).

Photo of Mr Peter Thomas Mr Peter Thomas , Hendon South

I would refer the hon. Member to the reply I gave on 14th December to the hon. Member for Aberdare (Mr. Probert) and to the proceedings of the Welsh Grand Committee on 20th January.—[Vol. 808, c. 931.]

Photo of Mr Denzil Davies Mr Denzil Davies , Llanelli

Is the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that there is considerable anxiety among local authorities about the content of this circular? Will he look at it again with a view to redefining the key sector proposals so as to include loans for development areas and so that clearance of derelict land has priority?

Photo of Mr Peter Thomas Mr Peter Thomas , Hendon South

There was anxiety among local authorities about the implementation of this circular. The principle behind the circular was widely accepted by the local authority associations. There have been recent discussions between my office and the local authorities which had expressed anxiety. I think that many of their anxieties have been allayed.