§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for the Environment which local authorities in England have applied to have part or all of their areas designated as rural areas under the Housing Bill 1980.
§ Mr. StanleyA few authorities have inquired, mainly orally, about the provisions governing designation of rural areas, and written representations have been received from South Lakeland and New Forest district councils. To date no formal applications have been received by my center hon. Friend.
§ Mr. Beithasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what criteria he will apply when deciding whether or not to 439W designate an area as a rural area under the terms of the Housing Bill 1980.
§ Mr. StanleyThe criteria are still being considered.