§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment why, in view of the fact that the Community Land Act 1975 places the duty of implementation on either the local authorities or the Land Authority for Wales, he intends to appoint a director of estates service and an architect-planner, sup- 10W ported by a multi-disciplinary team, to implement it as well; what specific rôle his appointees will have; and whether he will give an assurance that they will not attempt to undertake the work of local authorities, except after the exercise of the default procedure laid down in Section 48 of the Act.
§ Mr. John SilkinIt is normal practice for Ministers to draw on the advice of professional staff in giving guidance to local authorities on the exercise of statutory functions.
§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the existing staffing establishment of his Estates Division; and how many of its members hold professional qualifications in surveying.
§ Mr. John SilkinThe current complement of the Estates Division is 18. Of the 17 staff in post 11 hold professional qualifications in surveying.
§ Mr. Michael Lathamasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the intended staffing establishment of the multi-disciplinary team which is to be engaged on the implementation of the Community Land Act 1975; and what sum has been budgeted for in the forthcoming financial year to meet its staffing and overheads costs.
§ Mr. John SilkinThe intended complement is seven
1 Under-Secretary Architect/Planner1 Director B architect/planner1 Superintending estates officer1 Principal planner1 Senior planning officer2 Personal secretariesThe cost of salaries and general administrative expenses in 1976–77 is estimated at £75,000.