asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will name the borough councils which have made representations to him regarding transitional costs and state the nature of the representations made.

My right hon. Friend has received formal representations from the London boroughs of Hammersmith and Fulham and Sutton for disregards, under section 8(4) of the Local Government Finance Act 1982, relating to preparation for the abolition of the Greater London council. Members and officials of other boroughs have raised similar matters less formally.

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will state the criteria he will adopt for appointing the best men or women for the job of shadow chairmen of residuary bodies; and who takes the final responsibility for such appointments.

I have already done so on 5 June at columns 163–65.

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he intends to set the upper limit of expenses for the preparatory committees of successor authorities; and if he will make a statement.

No.

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to inform the House of those individuals who have accepted membership of preparatory committees of successor authorities.

Members of preparatory committees will be appointed by successor authorities. My right hon. Friend will have no interest in this matter.