§ Mr. Heddleasked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether, in the light of the view expressed by the chairman of the Commission for Local Administration in England in her last annual report, he will bring forward proposals that people should be able to complain to a local commissioner either direct or through a member of the authority involved.
§ Mr. Allan StewartI am aware of the arguments both for and against direct access. My right hon. Friend has no present plans to introduce amending legislation, but he will keep the matter under review in the light of the experience of the Commissioner for Local Administration in Scotland and the views of the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities.