§ Mr. Maddenasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what consideration he is giving to introducing legislation to prevent local authorities from providing information to their ratepayers, including the use of newspaper advertisements; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. WaldegraveThe Government disapprove of ratepayers' money being used by some authorities to finance what amounts to blatant propaganda, but it is for the local electorate in the first instance to make known its views about such excesses. My right hon. Friend has at present no plans for legislation in this area, but the position is being kept under close review.