HC Deb 21 June 1967 vol 748 c1701
13. Mr. Loveys

asked the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food what support he gives to planning applications on agricultural and horticultural holdings when the proposals are considered by him to be of advantage to the industry.

Mr. Peart

My present policy is to support applications for buildings without which the long-term needs of the land in question could not be met. Where this criterion is not satisfied I offer no comments.

Mr. Loveys

Is the Minister aware that he almost invariably seems to make this "no comment" statement when his advice is asked for by planning authorities? His Parliamentary Secretary, in answer to a question of mine many months ago, said that he would have another look at the matter. Has this been done?

Mr. Peart

I hope that planning authorities will not regard a "no comment" statement as a reason for turning down an application. There are difficulties here. It has probably been misinterpreted. That is not our intention. My Department is exploring with the industry the possibility of a revision of the practice. I note very carefully what the hon. Member has said.