§ Mr. Hayhoeasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what advice he has given to local authorities about the appointment of additional officers to deal with matters concerning the Community Land Bill.
§ Mr. John SilkinThe Community Land Bill requires local authorities to draw up their land acquisition and management schemes with particular regard to where manpower resources are already available. They have been advised that any necessary recruitment of staff should not precede this.
§ Mr. Spearingasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proposals he has to assist local authorities to operate the provisions of the Community Land Bill.
§ Mr. John SilkinWe are in close and regular touch with local authorities and others concerned about the practical aspects of implementing the provisions. Detailed guidance notes will be issued as soon as the legislation is enacted.
§ Mr. Onslowasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many representations on the Community Land Bill he has received from hon. Members, writing on behalf of constituents; and how many of the replies to those letters have been signed by officials, rather than by Ministers.
§ Mr. John SilkinSince the publication of the White Paper Ministers of the Department have signed approaching 1,000 letters to hon. Members about the community land scheme. In addition, in the interests of speed, some 300 letters were signed by our private secretaries, sending to hon. Members copies of my statement of 15th July to Standing Committee G about special provisions for churches and charities.