§ Mr. Deanasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department why the Miscellaneous Fees (Variation) Order 1968 was not sent to local authorities until a few days before the operative date of 1st April.
§ Mr. EnnalsThe Order was laid before Parliament on 16th February and was subject to a negative resolution. The delay in sending copies to local authorities was due initially to the consideration given to questions raised in Parliament about it and later to heavy demands on Home Office distribution services at the time. I regret the delay and any inconvenience it may have caused to local authorities.