§ Mr. Harry BarnesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what stage has been reached over his Department's review of the operation of the Minerals Act 1981; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AtkinsThe Government's intention to review the operation of the provisions of the Minerals Act 1981 was 41W announced in paragraph 6.57 of "This Common Inheritance". Some work relevant to this review is already under way. Any proposals for change arising out of the review will be the subject of full public consultation.