§ Mr. Buchanan-Smithasked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received regarding his proposals for additional powers for local authorities to control off-street parking; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. McElhoneSome 30 organisations and individuals responded to the consultation paper which the Scottish Development Department issued on 5th September last year. The proposal for control 161W of privately operated public car parks was welcomed by the Convention of Scottish Local Authorities. Other representations concern the proposals in respect of private non-residential parking. As my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Transport first told the House on 21st November—[Vol. 239, c. 1189]—powers to control private non-residential parking are not being sought at the present time. Provisions to enable regional and islands councils to control privately operated public car parks are contained in the Transport Bill currently before Parliament.