§ Mr. ToddTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he will introduce proposals for the payment to English local authorities of the new grant for rural bus services; and if he will be issuing guidance to the authorities concerned on use of the grant. [46645]
§ Dr. StrangI announced a provisional distribution of this grant on 28 April, subject to approval by Parliament in due course. Following consultation with interested parties, I have now laid before the House a Special Grant Report under Section 88B of the Local Government Finance Act 1988. This incorporates my detailed proposals for the payment of the grant and the conditions which will apply to its use. My Department is also circulating guidance to local authorities; a copy has been placed in the Library.