Sir Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps she plans to take in response to the petition, signed by 30,000 people and delivered to 10 Downing Street on 7 September, on the issue of splitting the local government of the Waterside from that of the New Forest.  [27859]

[Due for Answer on 11 September. Answered on 15 September.]

ANSWER

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Local Government, Devolution and Regional Growth (Jim McMahon): The Government recognises the New Forest’s distinct identity and the importance of its cultural, economic and historic ties, including with the Waterside. Ministers regularly visit local areas to engage with communities and stakeholders and would be happy to consider a future visit at an appropriate time.

With regard to local government reorganisation, the Government has withdrawn the decision in Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Portsmouth and Southampton and is undertaking a rapid review of the programme, including the withdrawn decision. The Government will set out next steps as soon as possible.