§ Lord Rankeillourasked Her Majesty's Government:
What evidence they have that local community councils are needed, and whether they are satisfied with the way in which these councils are formed and run.
§ The Minister of State, Scottish Office (Lord Gray of Contin)Responsibility for the formation, operation and financial support of community councils rests with individual district councils. The existence of many thriving and active community councils, highly valued by the local population, is however confirmed by correspondence regularly received within the Scottish Office. The report of a research study currently being undertaken by the department, on the basis of the councils' activities so far, will be helpful in indicating whether scope exists for any improvements.