asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what steps he will take to alleviate the Birmingham housing problem arising from his decision to reject the proposals, originating in his Department, for overspill development in Wythall; when he intends to take action to provide housing accommodation in new towns and new town development in the Midlands; and when Birmingham can expect to obtain the benefit of such accommodation.

I intend to take all possible steps in conjunction with Birmingham and the other local authorities concerned, to encourage expansion of selected towns beyond the green belt to receive overspill population. With regard to the possibility of a new town, I shall make an announcement as soon as possible, when the results of investigations now proceeding are available.