HC Deb 03 February 1970 vol 795 cc204-5
27. Mr. Henig

asked the Secretary of State for Local Government and Regional Planning when he now expects to announce a date for the coming into force of the proposed reform of local government.

23. Mr. Tinn

asked the Secretary of State for Local Government and Regional Planning when he expects to publish his White Paper on the Reorganisation of Local Government; and if he will make a statement.

24. Mr. Christopher Price

asked the Secretary of State for Local Government and Regional Planning when he now proposes to publish the White Paper on the implementation of the Redcliffe-Maud Report.

25. Mr. Hooley

asked the Secretary of State for Local Government and Regional Planning what is his present estimate of the time-table for the implementation of local government reform.

The Secretary of State for Local Government and Regional Planning (Mr. Anthony Crosland)

I shall present the White Paper tomorrow, and with the permission of the House, will make a statement. The White Paper will include the Government's estimate of the timetable likely to be required for local government reform.

Mr. Henig

Is my right hon. Friend aware that it is becoming increasingly clear to many citizens that the present structure of local authorities is simply incapable of performing many of the functions assigned to local government? Is he aware, for example, that in North-East Lancashire the position is quite unsatisfactory? Will he make sure that reform of local government comes into force absolutely as soon as possible?

Mr. Crosland

I am aware that there is a large volume of opinion supporting the points my hon. Friend has made. Certainly all of us on this side of the House and, I hope, hon. Members opposite, want to see reform carried through as soon as practicable.