§ 27. Mr. Goughasked the Paymaster-General if he is aware that the Southern Electricity Board has applied to the Minister of Power for his statutory consent and for deemed planning permission to erect an overhead electricity line running from Midhurst to Marley Common; and what is the policy of the Government to protect beautiful country against such encroachments.
§ The Paymaster-General (Mr. Reginald Maudling)Yes, Sir. My noble Friend has ordered a public inquiry into objections to the Board's proposals, to be held at Fernhurst on 21st July. He will consider the report of the inquiry and consult his right hon. Friend the Minister of Housing and Local Government before reaching a decision. It is the Government's policy to ensure, so far as is practicable, that areas of outstanding beauty are not chosen for the erection of overhead lines.