§ Mr. Sorensenasked the Minister of Health whether he has considered the resolution respecting local government reorganisation passed by the Essex County Council on 31st August; what similar resolutions he has received from other local authorities; and what steps are being taken to meet the grievances therein expressed and to satisfy local authorities that they will be fully consulted respecting Government proposals affecting local government?
§ Miss HorsbrughYes, Sir, and my right hon. Friend has had under consideration resolutions in the same terms from a number of other authorities. With regard to the last part of the Question I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to-day by my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister to my hon. Friends the Members for Evesham (Mr. De la Bére) and New Forest and Christchurch (Major Mills).
§ Mr. Hutchinsonasked the Prime Minister whether he has considered the resolutions adopted by the Essex County Council on the 30th August, 1943, with reference to the transfer to the central Government of responsibilities entrusted 237W to local authorities; and whether, in view of the apprehension felt by this council and by local authorities throughout the country on this subject, it is proposed to take any action, by way of inquiry, consultation or otherwise, in relation to the matters with which the resolution is concerned?
§ The Prime MinisterI would refer my hon. and learned Friend to the answer which I have given to-day in reply to Questions on this subject.