§ 7. Mr. John Ellisasked the Secretary of State for Employment what is the average waiting time that Scunthorpe and Glanford borough councils have to wait for replies from the Health and Safety Executive when they request their observations on planning applications.
§ Mr. John GrantThe average time that Scunthorpe and Glanford borough councils have had to wait for replies from the Health and Safety Executive when they have requested its observations on planning applications is five to six weeks.
§ Mr. EllisIs not the Minister aware that there is a real problem where local authorities, under the statute, have to consider planning applications within a certain time? On the other hand, by statute, they have to consider all points appertaining to the question. There have been cases, particularly involving Glanford borough council, which, I understand, reached ill-advised decisions in regard to storage of butane at Flixborough. That may have been done illegally because the council had not got the recommendations of the Health and Safety Executive in front of it, as required by statute. On the other hand, it has to consider the matter within a certain time. What advice can the Minister give? What will he do about this situation?
§ Mr. GrantThis is a real problem. The Health and Safety Executive cannot be expected to make appraisals at the drop of a hat. It takes time. I will draw the attention of my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment to the difficulties and, if necessary, discuss the matter with him.