HC Deb 08 February 1999 vol 325 cc7-8W
Mrs. Ellman

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he will consult on proposals for a beacon council scheme; and if he will make a statement. [70218]

Ms Armstrong

We intend to publish a prospectus tomorrow inviting views on proposals for a beacon scheme to identify and select the best councils, so that others can benefit from their experience, and in the longer term allow new freedoms and flexibilities to be tested.