asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what progress is being made in discussions between his Department and the Sand and Gravel Association about future supply policies; and when he expects such discussions to conclude.

Discussions on the factual bases for future supply policies are proceeding through the regional aggregates working parties in which the Sand and Gravel Association, the local planning authorities, my Department and other interested bodies participate. The interim results of the working parties' deliberations are expected to become available in the early part of 1978.