HC Deb 29 January 1963 vol 670 cc746-7
18. Sir T. Beamish

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs what reply he has sent to the National Parks Commission following their expression of concern at his reply to their request for confirmation of the Order designating the Sussex Downs as an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Sir K. Joseph

I explained that I felt obliged to return the order so that everyone concerned could have an opportunity of making representations to the Commission if they wished to do so; and I added that I was pleased to learn that the Commission intended to submit a new order. I am sending my hon. and gallant Friend a copy of the reply I sent to the Commission.

Sir T. Beamish

Is my right hon. Friend aware of the great disappointment at the long delays which have taken place? Does it not seem that this procedure is rather ridiculous? We now have to go through the same thing again. Would he look at the principle involved and see if he can speed up this matter?

Sir K. Joseph

Yes. Although the Commission was doing what was imposed upon it by statute and law, I felt that it would be observing the spirit as well as the letter of the law if it invited the opinions of those people whose land interests might be affected. There is that interest to reconcile.

Sir T. Beamish

In that case, if another small modification results from this next round, do we go through the same procedure yet again for another two years?

Sir K. Joseph

I certainly hope not. This occurred only because there was an extension of the originally designated area. I will seek to avoid any further delay if possible. I hope the Commission will carry out the consultations, which are, I think, sensible, as soon as it possibly can.