28. Colonel Clarkeasked the Minister of Education why, in spite of local objections and following a statement of disapproval by the local planning authority, Coombe Hall, East Grinstead, has been approved for use by the London County Council as a hostel and school for maladjusted children without any further contact or a public inquiry being held.
Mr. HardmanmMy right hon. Friend has been in consultation with his right hon. Friend the Minister for Local Government and Planning. While it would have been more usual for discussions to have taken place with the local planning authority about their objections, and it is regretted that this was not done, the hon. Member may rest assured that very full consideration was given to all the objections before consent was given to the proposal.
Colonel ClarkeDoes the Minister appreciate that we do not wish to be unco-operative, as he will know from his experience in the starting of a similar 2481 school in the neighbourhood, but there is very strong feeling in this district owing to an unfortunate experience not long ago? Bulldozing tactics of this sort will start any school off on a poor wicket vis-a-visits neighbours.
§ Mr. HardmanI am very sorry, as I have said.