HC Deb 04 July 1950 vol 477 cc235-6
35. Mr. Bossom

asked the Prime Minister if he requires all Government Departments to obtain the approval of the Ministry of Town and Country Planning before they ignore or over-ride the desires or decisions of local town planning authorities.

The Prime Minister (Mr. Attlee)

It is accepted that Government Departments should take into consideration the point of view of local planning authorities on all important proposals for development which are not secret. If the authority has a substantial objection to the proposal which the Department feels unable to meet, the Ministry of Town and Country Planning is informed, and the proposal is discussed to see whether anything can be done to meet the authority's point of view. Secret proposals are notified direct to the Ministry which consults the local planning authority so far as possible.

Mr. Bossom

Does that mean that they do not have to ask the Ministry of Town and Country Planning for approval when they are going away from the requirements of the local people?

The Prime Minister

I understand that this is a matter on which there is close contact between the local planning authorities and the Ministry of Town and Country Planning, but perhaps, if there is any detailed point, the hon. Gentleman will put down a Question to the Minister of Town and Country Planning.

Mr. David Renton

Will the Prime Minister say who has the last word when the planning interests of various Government Departments conflict?

The Prime Minister

I have not quite grasped to which particular Department the hon. Member refers.