§ Mr. PawseyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the procedure for extinguishing footpaths; what simple or local appeal or arbitration procedure exists to deal with requests for diverting or extinguishing footpaths; and what arrangements are made for the legal costs involved.
§ Mr. MacleanLocal authorities have powers to make orders to stop up or divert public paths. Any order made must be advertised since it affects public rights. Although some 70 per cent. of orders are confirmed locally, if there are objections which cannot be resolved, the order may be passed to the Secretary of State for confirmation, and a local inquiry may be held. We are introducing regulations to enable authorities to recoup their administrative expenses from an applicant for an order; otherwise, parties are generally expected to meet their own costs.