§ 60. Mr. Bossomasked the Minister of Town and Country Planning whether owners of large commercial properties or others whose industrial premises have been seriously bomb-damaged can instruct their architects to go ahead now with the preparation of final working drawings for their post-war premises on the understanding that the former frontage lines, etc., will not be altered; and, if not, when will he be in a position to make a statement.
§ The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Town and Country Planning (Mr. Henry Strauss)No, Sir. It would clearly be impossible to give such an assurance.
§ Mr. BossomCould my hon. Friend explain when there will be some possibility of information on this subject, be- 1983 cause it will take possibly 18 months to two years for the drawings to be made and the permits for building ready for contract, and any further delay due to the land situation is very serious?
§ Mr. StraussOwners in such cases should consult the local planning authorities, but my hon. Friend will appreciate that it may not always be possible for the planning authority to give a final answer at the present time.
§ Mr. BossomWould my hon. Friend get his Department to make their decisions as quickly as possible, so that planning authorities can do their part?
§ Sir R. AclandIs it not impossible to do this until it is decided whether or not landlords are or are not going to be able to exploit the public, as they did before the war?