HC Deb 15 January 1981 vol 996 cc1136-7
9. Mr. Wm. Ross

asked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether he will now seek to remove the right of district councils to consult with the Housing Executive, the Roads Service and the Water Service in Northern Ireland.

Mr. David Mitchell

I have no plans to do so.

Mr. Ross

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that, because of the meaningless consultation arrangements, the electorate believes that the councils have real power, whereas in fact the power resides with the Minister, who either overrides the decisions of boards—as he did on rents in Northern Ireland—or exercises his authority through his nominees on the boards or through his officials and services? Is it not time for this meaningless charade to come to an end and for the Minister either to accept responsibility himself or to restore powers to local representatives and local government?

Mr. Mitchell

The consultation procedures are an essential and vital link between the Government in Northern Ireland and the local communities, and it is certainly our intention to listen before we act.

The hon. Gentleman referred to the level of rents. The level of rent increases in Northern Ireland is lower by 50p than it is on the mainland. That is in addition to the £1 reduction, making the level of rent £1.50 lower in Northern Ireland than it is on the mainland.

Mr. Peter Robinson

Is the Minister aware that the people in Northern Ireland would be better served if more functions were given to local government, than if the few rights that it has were taken away?

Mr. Mitchell

The hon. Gentleman will know that constitutional changes are a matter for my right hon. Friend.