§ 6. Mr. Goldingasked the Secretary of State for the Home Department whether he will now seek an alternative site for a probation hostel in Newcastle-under-Lyme other than that under consideration at Knutton.
§ Mr. CarlisleI understand that the probation and after-care committee is already considering an alternative site.
§ Mr. GoldingIs the Minister aware that that news will be welcomed in Knutton, where there is intense opposition to this scheme? Is he further aware that there has been great concern at the thought that an appeal would be made against the borough council's refusal of planning permission, because there is a good alternative site available?
§ Mr. CarlisleI am sorry to disappoint the hon. Gentleman but, as I understand it, the appeal is still being made. The probation and after-care committee found premises which it thought suitable at Knutton and applied for planning permission. Planning permission was refused, and it has appealed to the Secretary of State for the Environment against the decision. In the meantime, the committee has been asked to look for an alternative site.