§ Dr. WhiteheadTo ask the Deputy Prime Minister how many applications he has received from local authorities under sections 2 and 5 of the Local Government Act 2000; how many applications have been determined by his Department; and what mechanisms are in place for dealing with such applications outside arrangements made in the course of the negotiations of local public service agreements. [126914]
§ Keith HillNine applications or expressions of interest have been received for action under section 5 of the Local Government Act 2000. Applications are assessed by the Department responsible for the relevant area of policy in conjunction with this Office. One application has so far been addressed through provision made in primary legislation. Others are subject to on-going discussions with the relevant local authorities.