§ Mr. Jim CunninghamTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister what consultation is planned prior to referendums on regional assemblies. [85393]
§ Mr. LeslieOn 2 December, the Government launched a soundings exercise on the level of interest in each English region (outside London) in holding a referendum about establishing an elected regional assembly. We are asking for views, information and evidence from people in each region, including local authorities, MPs, MEPs, regional chambers and others. Responses are requested by 3 March 2003.
This soundings exercise will inform the Secretary of State's consideration of the level of interest in each English region in holding a referendum about establishing an elected regional assembly. Level of interest will be the primary factor in determining which regions will undergo a local government review by the Boundary Committee. Such a review, which must be carried out in a region before a referendum on establishing elected assemblies can be held, will recommend the most appropriate unitary local
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