§ 22. Mr. Swinglerasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he will withhold planning permission for any change of use of the site of the Walton-on-Thames film studio, pending consideration by other Departments of the effects of the proposed closure of the studio on the future of the film industry.
§ Sir K. JosephNo formal application to redevelop the film studio has, I understand, yet been submitted to the local planning authority; but if an application is made it must be considered on its planning merits.
§ Mr. SwinglerIf an application is made, will the Parliamentary Secretary consider the fact that the federation of film unions has appealed to the Board of Trade to intervene in this matter to prevent a take-over bid because of the effect which the closure of this studio would have on the film industry's production capacity? Will he consult the Board of Trade before any approval is given to the application?
§ Sir K. JosephThis is all very important, but it is not within the planning Acts on which my right hon. Friend must act.