§ Mr. Tudor Watkinsasked the Secretary of State for Wales how many representations he has received from local authorities, organisations and individuals on the proposals for the re-organisation of local government in Wales; how many meetings Ministers have had with local authority associations, county and county borough councils, and district councils; if he is satisfied that all appropriate authorities have been consulted; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. George ThomasWritten representations have been received from 180 out of 181 county, borough, urban district and rural district councils in Wales; from 63 parish councils; from 68 organisations, including the five local authority associations representing authorities in England and Wales as well as associations representing Welsh authorities only; from 5 hon. Members of this House; and from 61 other individuals; 25 meetings have 125W been held with local authority associations and local authorities.
I am satisfied that the consultations, both before and after publication of the White Paper on Local Government in Wales (Cmnd. 3340), have involved all appropriate authorities. All the points which have been raised are being considered and while certain points will require further consultations, preparatory work on legislation is in hand.