§ Mr. Hayhoeasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what proportion of the cases of maladministration found by the Commission for Local Administration involve planning matters;
(2) how many cases have been investigated by the Commission for Local Administration; and in how many maladministration has been found.
§ Mr. John SilkinThese are questions for the Commission for Local Administration. I understand that the Commission has written to the hon. Member.
§ Mr. Hayhoeasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is keeping a watch on the cases of maladministration found by the Commission for Local Administration; and what action he is taking to prevent such incidents in the future.
§ Mr. John SilkinI certainly have a general interest in the operation of the complaints machinery in local government and in the extent to which Commissioners find maladministration. It is for the local authorities themselves, however, to decide what further action is appropriate in individual cases. The Commission has responsibility under Section 23(12) of the Local Government Act 1974 to review the operation of Part III of that Act annually, and it has power to convey to local authorities or to Government Departments any recommendations or conclusions reached in the course of its196W reviews. I shall decide what further action, if any, is needed in the light of such reports as the Commission makes to my Department.