§ Mr. Lawrenceasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will issue a circular to local authorities setting out the guidelines to be followed in relation to the closure of beaches.
§ Mr. Denis HowellMy right hon. Friend is not considering issuing a circular at present. DOE Circular 12/72 drew the attention of local authorities to the importance of securing adequate pedestrian access to the undeveloped coast. In the South-West Region, where particular problems have occurred, the Regional Sports Council is consulting landowners, local authorities and users with a view to arranging a meeting to work out access agreements.