HC Deb 16 October 1973 vol 861 cc99-100W
Mr. Milne

asked the Prime Minister if he will make a statement on his decision to set up an inquiry into local government law and practice, and on the scope of this inquiry.

The Prime Minister

On 2nd October, I announced that I had decided to appoint a committee to consider the rules of conduct applying to members and officers in local government and that Lord Redcliffe-Maud had agreed to be chairman. The study will cover local government in England—including London—Wales and Scotland.

The terms of reference of the committee are: To examine present local government law and practice as it relates to or might affect:

  1. (i) the conduct of both members and officers in situations where there is or could be a conflict between their position in local government and their private interests;
  2. (ii) qualification or disqualification for service as a member of a local authority or of any of its committees.
To consider the adequacy of the operation of such law and practice and the principles which should apply, and to make recommendations regarding compliance with such principles.

The names of the other members of the committee will be made known shortly. There will be announcements as soon as possible about the committee's address and its arrangements for receiving evidence.