I welcome the Minister here as a neighbour. Does the Minister accept the report which has been published regarding the reorganisation of local government or what is happening in that respect?
Local Elections Bill, 1973: Committee and Final Stages:
Sections 1 to 5, inclusive, agreed to.
Title agreed to.
Bill reported without amendment and received for final consideration.
Question proposed: "That the Bill do now pass."
I have already stated that I do not accept the report which has been published by the previous Government. I propose to have a new look at the whole question and I will do so as quickly as possible after consultation with the local authorities.
Does the Minister intend that, whatever reorganisation he decides upon, it will be carried through before the local elections are held next year?
Very definitely.
Question put and agreed to.