§ Mr. Montgomeryasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he will bring forward legislation to clarify section 137 of the Local Government Act 1972, so as to remove any doubt as to the scope of activities which local authorities may finance under that section; and if he will make a statement on the workings of that section.
§ Mr. Tom KingMy right hon. Friend is aware that the Court of Appeal will be considering a recent judgment in the High Court concerning the use of this power by the Greater Manchester county council. He will consider the need for amending legislation in the light of the outcome of that case.