asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the policy of the Government with regard to expanded towns; and if he will make a statement.

As my hon. Friend will know, the Town Development Act, 1952 was introduced by a Conservative Government to enable local authorities to provide houses for families from the congested areas. Our belief that this is a sensible policy is unchanged and we intend to see that it is used to the best advantage.

In view of that answer, would my hon. Friend please see, where projects are awaiting decision by the Minister, that action is taken quickly? I have in mind one case in which the Greater London Council, as the exporting authority, held a public inquiry last January, which is 12 months ago, and in which there has still been no answer from the Minister.

If my hon. Friend would like to write to me giving specific details, I will try to reply to her. We have to take into account a large number of factors but, compatible with the situation, we try to move with all reasonable speed.