§ Q31. Mr. Hicksasked the Prime Minister if she is satisfied that the existing departmental structure is sufficiently flexible and responsive to assess the overall effect of policies pursued by the Government on rural areas and those living in the countryside; and if she will make a statement.
§ The Prime MinisterYes. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment has special regard to the need to monitor the total effect of Government policies on rural areas as part of his responsibilities for regional policy.