HC Deb 25 June 2002 vol 387 c818W
Mr. Kidney

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister when he will publish a consultation document on his proposals for a new system for the distribution of funding to local authorities. [62344]

Mr. Raynsford

As I announced to Parliament on 11 June, we intend to publish a consultation document containing our proposals for a new system for the distribution of general revenue funding to local authorities by mid-July.

Mr. Peter Atkinson

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister how many reports have been made to his Department through the Government office of the north-east by the North East Assembly accounting for expenditure of money provided under the Strengthening Regional Accountability Initiative; and if he will publish them. [62549]

Mr. Raynsford

The Government office has arrangements in place which require the North East Assembly to submit quarterly reports accounting for expenditure of money provided under the regional chambers fund. The quarterly reports are followed by a meeting between the North East Assembly and the Government office for the north-east, to discuss the reports in more detail.

The North East Assembly has submitted one report, accounting for expenditure for the final quarter of 2001–02. This report was assessed and approved in line with guidance issued by the then Department of Transport, Local Government and the Regions.

The report has not been published. The North East Assembly is a voluntary body and it is for them to decide whether to make their accounts available to the public.