asked the Secretary of State for Scotland whether the report of the working party of officials set up to consider the question of local government reorganisation has yet been considered by the steering committee of elected members; and if he will now make a statement on the subject.

The working party's first report was published last week. The introduction records the steering committee's agreement that it should be accepted as a basis for further consideration, and that the working party should proceed to examine possible boundaries. This is now being done.

Does the Secretary of State agree that there has been undue delay in this matter? What recommendations are being made by the steering committee, and what steps is the right hon. Gentleman taking to implement its recommendations? Can he expedite the matter?

The delay was not unexpected. I did not hope at any stage that all these very difficult and concentrated problems would be settled for a considerable time—and they will not be, yet. Copies of the report of the steering committee are in the Vote Office, and I am sure that the hon. and learned Member will be interested to read it.