§ 40. Mr. John H. Osbornasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what are the subjects of the studies currently being conducted into the extension of industrial democracy into local government and related bodies; and if he will give an assurance that no action will be taken on them in conflict with the democratic responsibility of elected councillors to those whom they represent.
§ Mr. John SilkinThe local authority associations have been invited to initiate the studies referred to, and I understand they are considering how best to proceed. As regards the accountability of elected members I would refer the hon. Member to the statement made by my hon. Friend the Minister, Civil Service Department on 11th February 1976.—[Vol. 905, c.240–1.]