§ Mr. Barnettasked the Secretary of State for Local Government and Regional Planning what discussions he has had with economic planning councils on their future work; and if he will make a statement on future policies and organisation for these bodies.
§ Mr. CroslandI shall be holding my first meeting with the Chairmen of the Economic Planning Councils on Thursday, 13th November. Over the coming months, I also hope to meet the Councils individually in their regions.
The Councils are continuing their essential work of developing planning strategies for their regions and advising the Government on the regional implications of national policies. I do not envisage any early changes in their responsibilities or organisation.