§ 1. Mr. Hastingsasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government why he rejected the recommendation of his inspector on the appeal by Galliford 237 Estates Limited with regard to the density of houses to be permitted on an overspill development at Mill Lane, Sandy.
§ The Joint Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Housing and Local Government (Mr. Arthur Skeffington)It is essential to make the best use of building land, and my right hon. Friend was satisfied that an increase in density from six houses to 10 houses an acre would not prevent the establishment of a balanced community. The appeal was rejected because the site merited a high standard of design and the proposed housing layout was not of a quality which my right hon. Friend could endorse.
§ Mr. HastingsYes, but if the Minister wants to encourage overspill, as he presumably does, why, against his own inspector's advice, will be not pay attention to the considered views of the local authorities, both county and urban authorities, concerned? Is this not the way directly to discourage any other comparable small town from making a contribution of this kind?
§ Mr. SkeffingtonThe hon. Gentleman may not fully understand the planning processes—
§ Mr. HastingsI understand them very well.
§ Mr. SkeffingtonThe original decision here, which was taken by the local authority, was then examined at a public inquiry. Certain recommendations were made by the inspector. It is then my right hon. Friend's duty to evaluate those recommendations and come to his conclusions. That is what he has done in this case.
§ Mr. HastingsOn a point of order. In view of the unsatisfactory nature of that reply, I beg to give notice that I will raise the matter on the Adjournment as soon as possible.