§ Mr. EvansTo ask the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received with regard to the introduction of elected mayors for the(a) regions, (b) cities and (c) towns of Wales. [115584]
§ Mr. Paul MurphyI have received a large number of representations relating to the introduction of executive arrangements, including elected mayors, in the Local Government Bill, but these have not been detailed representations relating to mayors for specific regions, cities or towns of Wales.
The Local Government Bill, which has now completed its parliamentary stages, provides a tailor made framework for executive arrangements including cabinets and directly elected mayors. All local authorities in Wales will need to consider which form of executive arrangement is most appropriate in their areas, and those who consider that a directly elected mayor would be appropriate will need to consult their electorate and hold a referendum on their proposals.