§ Mr. O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he has any proposals for the reorganisation of local government involving the district and shire counties; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mrs. Virginia BottomleyNone whatsoever. The Government's recent legislation, together with the proposals we are bringing forward this Session, Presents local authorities with a major challenge to make themselves more efficient and accountable to their electorate. These are the priorities for the next few years. Further changes in local government structure form no part of our agenda.