§ Dr. IddonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will consider reintroducing the provisions of the Caravan Sites Act 1968, with special reference to the requirement on local authorities to provide sites for travellers. [6639]
446W
§ Mr. RaynsfordWe have no plans to reintroduce a statutory duty on local authorities to provide gypsy caravan sites. Local authorities already have a discretionary power (in section 24 of the Caravan Sites and Control of Development Act 1960) to provide sites for gypsies if necessary. My Department's Circular number 18/94, "Gypsy Sites Policy and Unauthorised Camping" also advises local authorities to keep their existing gypsy sites open and well maintained, and to consider the provision of emergency stopping places for gypsies visiting their area.