HC Deb 20 July 1962 vol 663 cc97-8W
Mr. Iremonger

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what arrangements are being made by the county councils of London, Middlesex, Surrey, Kent and Essex, respectively, to assist him in the reorganisation of local government in Greater London.

Sir K. Joseph

All but the London County Council are giving me every assistance. The Leader of the London County Council assured my right hon. Friend the Prime Minister in May that the council was fully aware of its res- ponsibilities for co-operating with the Government in the preparation and implementation of legislation. I have today received from the council a copy of a recent resolution which indicates that it does not intend to fulfil these responsibilities. I deplore this decision, which falls below the standards which responsible local authorities observe in matters of this kind; but I hope that even at this late stage wiser thoughts will prevail.