§ Mr. Strawasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he expects the interim report of the Widdicombe inquiry into local government advertising to be published before the summer recess; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerWe have asked the Widdicombe inquiry to submit by the end of July an interim report on local authorities' involvement in publicity and political campaigning.
§ Mr. Strawasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has any plans to make use of his existing legislative powers under sections 137 and 142 of the Local Government Act 1972 in relation to local government advertising before the Widdicombe committee of inquiry reports; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerMy right hon. Friend has no powers under sections 137 and 42 of the Local Government Act 972 in relation to local government advertising.