§ Mr. BatesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has reached a decision on the timing of elections to the proposed unitary authorities in Cleveland; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. CurrySubject to the outcome of the Cleveland county council's judicial review case, the Cleveland implementation order will provide for the transfer of county functions to the districts on 1 April 1995 and for elections to be held in May 1995. Our decision reflects the particular circumstances in Cleveland and is not a precedent for any future cases where an existing council is to continue as a unitary authority. We propose as a general rule to consult the authorities concerned and elections will usually be held at the start of the shadow period leading up to reorganisation.