HC Deb 14 January 1985 vol 71 cc2-3W
Mr. Shersby

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what departmental studies have been carried out on the transfer of services from the Greater London council to the London boroughs in 1986; and if he will make the maximum amount of information on the transfer available as soon as possible.

Sir George Young

My officials are discussing, with as many boroughs as are prepared to do so, plans for the smooth transfer of functions from the GLC. In addition, the Department has offered to make available to all successor authorities information obtained under section 5 of the Local Government (Interim Provisions) Act 1984.

Mr. Shersby

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what proposals he has for providing financial assistance to the London boroughs to meet the extra cost of staff engaged in the detailed planning necessary between January 1985 and March 1986 to enable the smooth transfer of responsibilities from the Greater London council; and if he has considered an adjustment of grant-related expenditure assessment for this purpose.

Sir George Young

There are no such proposals. Adequate advance planning for the proposed transfer of functions should bring its own reward to the London boroughs and their ratepayers.