§ Mr. Adleyasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he is aware that many local authorities which, following local government reorganisation, will become part of larger district councils are now seeking to complete contracts for large sums of money on local projects which they are now able to authorise; and if he will, therefore, take immediate steps to hold up all projects over £25,000 prior to next April, so that the new district councils may scrutinise these schemes, in the interests of all ratepayers in the new districts.
§ Mr. Graham PageI have already urged authorities to consult with their neighbours with whom they will be merged before undertaking substantial capital expenditure. I have no evidence that they are not doing so. Nor have I any evidence that authorities are not heeding the Government's call for restraint in expenditure on any construction which is not essential. I have no reason therefore, even if it were possible, to require schemes, such as those referred to, to be stopped.