To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what steps the Government are taking to help local authorities prepare for local elections in areas where European elections will be held alongside those for local authorities. (261749)

The Government are working with the Electoral Commission, the Association of Electoral Administrators and other stakeholders including regional returning officers to ensure that all necessary legislation and guidance is in place for these elections. In particular in areas undergoing local government restructuring the Government legislated to enable those who will be responsible for the conduct of both local and European elections to begin preparations before 1 April 2009, the date new unitary authorities will become responsible for all local government services in their area.