§ 28. Mr. Michael Forsythasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will introduce legislation to extend the powers of the Commissioner for Local Administration in Scotland so that local authorities are required to implement his recommendations within a specified period; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. AncramMy right hon. and learned Friend has not ruled out the possibility of introducing legislation to provide for enforcement although, as the commissioner has himself said, voluntary compliance by local authorities would be the better course. The recommendation of the Widdicombe committee on this point will be carefully considered, as will any recommendation bearing on the matter which may be made by the Select Committee on the Parliamentary Commissioner for Administration.