§ Mr. Wigleyasked the Secretary of State for Wales what representations he has received from local authorities, chambers of trade and other interested organisations in Gwynedd concerning the need to give local authorities greater control over open air markets; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. John Stradling ThomasSince November 1981, representations have been received from Dwyfor district council, the Development Board for Rural Wales and the Barmouth, Criccieth and Porthmadog chambers of trade. The controls currently available within my right hon. Friend's field of responsibility under town and country planning legislation are generally adequate for the control of open air markets. The provisions of Section 37 of the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1982, enabling district councils to resolve to require at least one month's notice of intended temporary markets in their area, should also strenghten their powers of control. Questions of fair competition are for my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry while matters bearing upon provisions of the Shops Act 1950 are for my right hon. Friend the Home Secretary.