§ Richard BurdenTo ask the Secretary of State for Transport, Local Government and the Regions what progress has been made on the transfer of the Local Government Commission for England to the Electoral Commission; and if he will make a statement. [4972]
§ Mr. RaynsfordWe have now consulted the Electoral Commission, the Local Government Commission for England and other interested parties, on a draft of an order to be made under section 18 of the Political Parties, Elections and Referendums Act 2000, which would provide for the transfer of functions with effect from 1 April 2002. In the light of comments received, our firm intention is now, subject to parliamentary approval of a draft, to make this order as soon as practicable.