§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions who is responsible for deciding the membership of each local strategic partnership. [151786]
§ Ms Beverley HughesThe membership and size of a local strategic partnership will depend on local circumstances. To be effective any strategic partnership will need to involve the key public agencies who provide most local services, such as local authorities, the health authority, police, Employment Service and Benefits Agency. However, local strategic partnerships must also include the private sector, voluntary organisations and local people in their core membership. The specific membership in any area should reflect local needs and priorities (as identified by the community strategy and local neighbourhood renewal strategy). Local authorities should take the first steps to ensure that a local strategic partnership is set up, building on existing effective partnerships in the area wherever possible.
§ Mr. Gordon PrenticeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he intends to issue further guidance on the establishment of local strategic partnerships; and if he will make a statement. [151758]
§ Ms Beverley HughesDraft guidance on the establishment and key objectives of local strategic partnerships was issued for consultation in October 2000. Over 250 responses were received. The Government have considered these responses and are drafting final guidance in light of the comments made and other 53W relevant policy developments on neighbourhood renewal, local government modernisation and urban and rural issues. We intend to issue this guidance shortly.