HC Deb 24 June 1985 vol 81 c299W
Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will name the borough councils which have made representations to him regarding transitional costs and state the nature of the representations made.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

My right hon. Friend has received formal representations from the London boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham and Sutton for disregards, under section 8(4) of the Local Government Finance Act 1982, relating to preparation for the abolition of the Greater London council. Members and officials of other boroughs have raised similar matters less formally.

Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will state the criteria he will adopt for appointing the best men or women for the job of shadow chairmen of residuary bodies; and who takes the final responsibility for such appointments.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

I have already done so on 5 June at columns163–65.

Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he intends to set the upper limit of expenses for the preparatory committees of successor authorities; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

No.

Mr. Tony Banks

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to inform the House of those individuals who have accepted membership of preparatory committees of successor authorities.

Mr. Kenneth Baker

Members of preparatory committees will be appointed by successor authorities. My right hon. Friend will have no interest in this matter.