HC Deb 19 January 1943 vol 386 cc34-5
51. Major Petherick

asked the Prime Minister whether he will consider the setting-up of a Royal Commission, to begin work as soon as the war is over, in order to examine and report on the present structure and functions of local government?

Mr. Attlee

The question of what further investigation of the matter to which my hon. and gallant Friend refers should be undertaken, when it should commence, and what form it should take are receiving consideration. I do not think that the procedure of setting up a Royal Commission now to begin work after the war would be a satisfactory one.

Major Petherick

Will the right hon. Gentleman assure the House, in view of the considerable perturbation of the ancient boroughs in this Kingdom and also the rural district councils and other authorities, that no irrevocable step relating to the reform of local authorities in general will be taken without the fullest and most careful consideration being given to the views of those concerned?

Mr. Attlee

My hon. and gallant Friend can be assured that in this matter the very fullest consideration will be given to the views of all concerned.