asked the Minister of Local Government and Planning if he is aware of the burdens inflicted upon large cities that were severely damaged by enemy action, by virtue of the fact that they have to repay loans and interest on money borrowed from the Treasury to purchase land which is lying derelict and likely to remain so for some time; and if he will relieve such authorities by making this a national charge until facilities are obtained to put this ground into use.

In such circumstances a local authority may apply to the Public Works Loan Commissioners for authority to defer payment until redevelopment can take place. On re-development, substantial grants, equal to 90 per cent. of loan charges during the early years, are payable under the Town and Country Planning Act, 1947. These grants will take account of interest on expenditure incurred in making these advance acquisitions.