asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what discussions he has had with representatives of the north of England County Councils Association about its sixth state of the region report, and if he will make a statement.

My right hon. Friend's predecessor, the right hon. Member for Wanstead and Woodford (Mr. Jenkin), met representatives of the association to discuss the report on 19 June this year. The meeting was also attended by ministerial colleagues from the Department of Trade and Industry and the Department of Employment. Discussions covered a wide range of issues arising from the report.