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Local Government

Most of the major points have already been made, but I should like to say a few words on behalf of my constituents, who ask me, ““Why Cheshire? Why can it not be like Derbyshire or Staffordshire and not have to go through this dreadful process in which one part of the county is set against another and one set of councillors is set against another?”” There has been no support for the Government's proposals; most would have preferred the status quo or an improved two-tier system. Frankly, the consultation has been lacking—yes, there is a great long list of so-called stakeholders, but I want to know why the ordinary people have not been consulted. They want to know that too. A MORI poll revealed that in Congleton constituency, there was 16 per cent. support for a single county unitary authority, only 27 per cent. support for a two-unitary solution, but 55 per cent. support for improved working of the two-tier system. In addition, my council has gone to the High Court about the unlawfulness of the process. It lost its case, but was given permission to appeal. That appeal has been heard and we are awaiting the outcome. We know, of course, that this process will not be stopped. The cost will be ginormous. When has anyone ever known a reorganisation to cost less? It never has, and that cost will have to be borne by my constituents among other local town council tax payers of Cheshire.