§ Mr. Michael Morrisasked the Secretary of State for Social Services 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. DeakinsThe number of circulars issued to local authorities in England and Wales in each year 1974 to 1978 is as follows:
England Wales 1974 37 37 1975 21 21 1976 29 35 * 1977 28 45 1978 (to July) 12 9 Of these, five circulars notified authorities of increased statutory duties:
LAC(75)21 Children's Act 1975 Implementation. LAC(76)12 Public Health Act (Infectious Diseases Amendment) Regulations 1976. LAC(76)13 Food and Drugs (Control of Food Premises) Act 1976. LAC(76)22 Children Act 1975 (Commencement Order No. 1). LAC(76)27 Public Health Act (Infectious Diseases Amendment No. 2) Regulations 1976. * Certain information given to English authorities by letter was issued to Welsh authorities by circular.