asked the Minister of Housing and Local Govern- ment and Minister for Welsh Affairs what advice he has given to local authorities about their participation in the arrangements for the central redevelopment of towns.

Planning Bulletin No. 1 "Town Centres—Approach to Renewal" contains advice to local authorities on this and other aspects of town centre redevelopment. I am sending the bon. Member a copy.

While recognising that on the planning side the bulletin is excellent, may I ask the hon. Gentleman whether he is aware that on the financial side it is less successful? Will he consider the urgent need to give local authorities more constructive guidance about financial arrangements with private developers so as to protect the community interest not only now but well into the future?

I assure the hon. Gentleman that the financial side is under further consideration, and we hope to issue another bulletin specialising on this aspect of the matter.