§ Mr. Jim Lesterasked the Secretary of State for Social Services, in the current discussion with the Association of Community Health Councils for England and Wales on organic changes in local government, what steps he is taking to take account of the views of the Association of County Councils as well as the Association of District Councils.
§ Mr. MoyleI am well aware of the views of the Association of County Councils, which I discussed fully with their representatives at a meeting on 22nd December 1977.
In considering the results of the present consultation, the Government will give full weight to the association's preference for a period of stability in local government, as well as to the views of those wishing for some limited change. We have drawn attention to the specific proposals for change made by the Association of District Councils, because we could not otherwise have been certain that the bodies consulted—including the Association of Community Health Councils for England and Wales—would be aware of them and able to comment on them.