§ 21. Mr. Robert Howarthasked the Secretary of State for Local Government and Regional Planning what action he has taken to develop co-operation between regional planning councils and local planning authorities to ensure harmonisation of aims and policies.
§ Mr. CroslandThe planning councils and the local planning authorities in their regions are already in frequent touch with each other. And I want to develop cooperation between them still further. I have already discussed this with the planning council chairmen, and I propose shortly to discuss it with the local authority associations concerned. Moreover, I have, on recent regional visits, held joint meetings with representatives of both the planning councils and the groupings of local planning authorities. I intend to have similar discussions in other regions in the coming months.
§ Mr. HowarthIs my right hon. Friend aware that the real test in Lancashire in this matter will come in the years ahead if the new central Lancashire town is built? Will he undertake to keep the House informed of attempts to improve this consultation?
§ Mr. CroslandYes, Sir, gladly.