2. The country is being divided into workable areas to provide for simultaneous action on the most effective scale. Regional schemes are being prepared where necessary and a single scheme is now in operation covering the 156 local authorities in and around London. A second Regional scheme centred on Birmingham and covering some 30 local authority areas is now being launched and others will follow speedily. Local authorities will be required to make full use of their statutory powers and, where necessary, to co-ordinate the timing and method of their measures with those of adjoining authorities.