§ Mr. Newensasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will make a statement on the progress of his discussions with local authorities about the provision of stopping places for gipsies and travellers.
§ Mr. John SilkinThe Department's advisory officer, who took up post on 13th January, has already had meetings with representatives of at least 20 local authorities throughout the country. My officials will be following this up with meetings of groups of authorities to discuss site provision strategy on a broader basis.