§ 18. Mr. Kilfedderasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland if he will immediately take steps to reshape local government so as to reintroduce the full democratic elements and powers which are regarded as necessary in local government in England, Wales and Scotland.
§ Mr. MasonI said in the House of Commons on 28th October—[Vol. 918, c. 694]—that I recognised that a gap existed between the 26 local councils and central Government. I also said that I wanted the politicians in Northern Ireland to get together to try to bridge the gulf so that all parties concerned could acquiesce in a form of partnership in government. I said that I should be prepared to consider their solutions. That remains my position.