HC Deb 06 May 1969 vol 783 cc250-1
8. Mr. Lubbock

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government when the Report of the Royal Commission on Local Government in England will be published.

Mr. Greenwood

I understand that the Commission's Report will be published soon after Whitsun.

Mr. Lubbock

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that reports are appearing with great regularity in the Press purporting to describe what is in the Maud Committee's Report? Considering the embarrassment that this must be causing to his Ministry, will he take steps with the Stationery Office to expedite the printing of the Report so that we shall know what is actually in it and not what is alleged to be in it?

Mr. Greenwood

I share the anxiety of the hon. Member about the reports which may or may not be correct, which I know create an atmosphere of uncertainty. The actual machinery for publication of the Report is under the direction of the Royal Commission itself. We have emphasised to the Stationery Office the need for ensuring that there is no unnecessary delay in publication. I believe that immediately after Whitsuntide is the earliest date when this will be possible.