HC Deb 23 April 1986 vol 96 c298
19. Mr. Park

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he proposes meeting representatives of voluntary organisations to discuss future funding arrangements following the abolition of the Greater London council and the metropolitan county councils.

Sir George Young

My right hon. Friend met representatives of voluntary organisations on 24 March to discuss this. The London Voluntary Service Council telephoned my Department yesterday to seek a further meeting, and it will be meeting my officials tomorrow.

Mr. Park

Is the Minister aware that voluntary bodies engaged in worthwhile projects are being wound up because district councils cannot fund them? Will he consider, in advance of the Widdicombe report, increasing the section 137 money from 2p to 4p so that the new responsibilities can be met?

Sir George Young

My Department is awaiting the report of the Widdicombe inquiry with bated breath. We understand that it is not far away. When we have the report, we will be able to decide on the 2p rate under section 137.

Mr. O'Brien

On a point of order, Mr. Speaker.

Mr. Speaker

Arising out of questions?

Mr. O'Brien

Yes. Will you, Mr. Speaker, uphold the dignity and decorum of the Chamber by asking the Minister for Environment, Countryside and Local Government either to substantiate what he said about the outgoing West Yorkshire county councilors—

Mr. Speaker

Order. I am afraid that answers to supplementary questions from the Front Bench are not a matter for me.