§ Mr. Simon Mahonasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many dispensations have been allowed in England and Wales, to alderman and councillors, under the Local Government Acts since 18th June 1970; if he will publish a list; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Graham PageA total of 1,513 dispensations to speak or vote has been granted to local authority members in England since 18th June, 1970. Parish councillors are excluded, since they apply to the county councils for dispensation. The Secretary of State for Wales gives dispensations to Welsh councillors.
Dispensations are normally given in accordance with the policy outlined in Circular No. 5/67 issued jointly by the Ministry of Housing and Local Government and the Welsh Office on 18th January, 1967. I see no good reason to published detailed lists of dispensations given, but each local authority clerk is required to keep a register of all interests declared available for inspection by members of his authority.