§ 1. Sir T. Beamishasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government whether, during his current review of the planning machinery set up in the Town and Country Planning Act, 1962, he will consider the proposal that parish councils should have, as of right, a copy of all planning applications that affect them.
§ The Minister of State, Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Frederick Willey)My right hon. Friend has considered this proposal, but he thinks it better to encourage voluntary arrangements for consultation with parish councils.
§ Sir T. BeamishIs the Minister of State aware that quite unnecessary friction and delay occur through the failure of planning authorities to inform parish councils about these matters? Will he give every thought to the possibilty of statutory requirements making it necessary for parish councils to be kept fully informed?
§ Mr. WilleyAs far as I am aware, the voluntary arrangements are working well. If the hon. Gentleman cares to call my attention to cases where he thinks that they are not working effectively, certainly I will look at them.
§ Mr. AllasonHow does the right hon. Gentleman reconcile the desire of the Government that individual neighbours should be informed with his answer that he does not require parishes to be informed?
§ Mr. WilleyThe voluntary arrangements are working well, and I think it is better left to voluntary arrangement. It is difficult to provide standardised procedures to meet the needs of all counties. I think that it is better to rely upon this, if it works.