(13 years, 2 months ago)
Commons ChamberI suspect that it is an example of inaccurate point scoring by the hon. Gentleman. We propose to give local authorities greater flexibility to meet the pressures that vary from place to place, rather than having a “one size fits all” straitjacket.
5. What steps he is taking to improve transparency in local government.
20. What recent discussions his Department has had with Lancashire county council on levels of funding for community services in Sunderland Point, Morecambe.
My Department has had no representations from Lancashire county council in relation to the matter that my hon. Friend raises.
Thank you for that answer. [Interruption.] Behave yourselves across the Floor there.
Sunderland Point is a community that must be protected at all costs. It is a very historic area of this country, and Lancashire county council should help in any way it possibly can. I hope that the Minister’s Department can help accordingly.
I am conscious of the sensitivities involved in Sunderland Point and the areas to which my hon. Friend refers. Predominantly, the works there are dealt with by the Environment Agency, but Lancashire county council would stand ready to assist as far as it can.