HC Deb 17 September 2004 vol 424 cc1822-3W
Janet Anderson

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister whether his Department has had discussions with Rossendale borough council about the possible sale of the site of the former civic hall in Whitworth. [188492]

Phil Hope

Within the context of the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister's monitoring the council's overall performance, the topic of asset management is periodically discussed with the council. However decisions concerning asset sales are taken solely by the council.

Janet Anderson

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will list requirements made by his Department of Rossendale borough council in respect of asset sales. [188493]

Phil Hope

My right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister has no requirements of Rossendale borough council (RBC) in relation to asset sales other than those generally required by law. Like all local authorities, RBC is expected to submit its asset management plan to its regional Government office for assessment, with the aim of reaching a "Good" standard. As a council categorised as poor under the Comprehensive Performance Assessment regime, RBC is also required to agree an Improvement Plan with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, against which its performance is regularly monitored.

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