§ Mr. AingerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what is his timetable for the introduction of legislation to establish the national parks as independent boards; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. Atkins[holding answer 21 June 1994]: The Local Government (Wales) Bill will allow my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Wales to establish joint or special planning boards for the three national parks in Wales. However, it is our intention to introduce legislation to establish independent authorities for all 10 national parks in England and Wales as soon as there is a suitable opportunity to do so.