HC Deb 09 March 1948 vol 448 cc1010-1
63. Mr. Harrison

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he is satisfied that the existing regulations are sufficient to ensure the restoration of agricultural land after gravel excavations have been made.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Town and Country Planning (Mr. King)

I have been asked to reply. The existing powers are not altogether adequate but they will be replaced when the Town and Country Planning Act, 1947, comes into full operation next July. My right hon. Friend is reviewing the question in connection with the regulations to be made under Section 81 of that Act.

Sir Ralph Glyn

Will the hon. Gentleman take immediate steps to warn companies seeking to open gravel pits that they will be subject to these regulations from an early date?

Mr. King

Companies seeking to open up gravel pits must first get permits and there are various requirements in connection with them.

Mr. Thornton-Kemsley

Can the hon. Gentleman give the House an indication when we may expect to see these important regulations?

Mr. King

The appointed day under the Act is 1st July, 1948, and that is a good indication.

64. Mr. Harrison

asked the Minister of Agriculture if he will take the necessary steps to enforce the restoration of land for agricultural purposes after the excavation of Trent gravel in the Nottingham district, and prevent in future the permanent spoilation of good land by the creation of waterlogged and rubble-covered areas.

Mr. King

I have been asked to reply. It is primarily a matter for the local planning authorities to exercise their powers under the Town and Country Planning Acts for securing a proper measure of restoration. It is not always possible or appropriate to restore to agricultural use. The Advisory Committee on Sand and Gravel is considering some aspects of this problem and in the light of their recommendations, my right hon. Friend will consider giving to local planning authorities some guidance on the question.