Archived decisions

Contact : Malcolm Cole Ext 7385

1. Summary

1.1 The County Council responded to the Government's White Paper `Your Region - Your Choice' in July 2002. The White Paper proposals are now being taken forward by the Government and the County Council needs to consider and respond to:

_ the Regional Assemblies (Preparations) Bill


_ a `Soundings' document on the issue of holding referendums


_ draft guidance on local government review.

1.2 The following decisions are sought:

1. That the survey work, in co-operation with other South East counties, be undertaken in accordance with the details set out in section 4 of the attached report.


2. That efforts continue to seek appropriate amendments to the Regional Assemblies (Preparations) Bill as set out in the report.


3. That a position statement on these issues in respect of both Hampshire and the South East be drawn up and distributed widely to Hampshire partner organisations and the Hampshire public to inform the debate by making clear the arguments against the desirability of either a referendum about, or the establishment of, an elected Regional Assembly for the South East.


4. That, following the above action, a draft County Council response to the `Soundings' document and the draft Boundary Committee guidance be prepared for the Cabinet meeting on 10 February for onward submission to the County Council.

2. Reason

2.1 The County Council is being formally consulted on these issues and will also wish to reflect the Hampshire view of the proposals

3. Other options considered and rejected:
Not applicable.

4. Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or a member or officer consulted - Not applicable.

5. Dispensation granted by the Standard's Committee - Not applicable.

6. Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent - Not applicable.

Approved by: Date:

Councillor T K Thornber CBE