§ Mr. Michael Morrisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many circulars his Department has issued to local authorities (a) in England and (b) in England and Wales, in each year since 1974 and how many issued instructions increasing the statutory duties of local authorities.
§ Mr. Peter ShoreThe total number of circulars issued is as follows:
Year England England and Wales 1975 33 96 1976 23 99 1977 30 99 1978 (to 30th June) 11 34 Note: The figures relate to circulars issued by the Department of the Environment (DOE) and jointly by DOE and the Welsh Office. En November 1976 the transport functions then exercised by DOE were transferred to the Department of Transport.
The information requested in the second part of the Question could be provided only at a disproportionate cost. However, circulars are generally of an advisory nature only.