§ Mr. PickthallTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what plans he has to review the Local Government (Politically Restricted Posts) (No. 2) Regulations 1990. [32597]
§ Mr. Raynsford[holding answer 3 March 1998]: On 30 September my hon. Friend the Minister for Local Government and Housing announced a review of the regulations governing politically restricted posts in local 653W government. The Government remain firmly committed to the principle of political impartiality among senior and other front line public servants, but we wish to satisfy ourselves that the detail of the restrictions, and the level and number of local government officers affected, are appropriate. We intend to publish proposals for consultation by Easter.