§ 13. Mr. HansonTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what representations he has received regarding his review of planning policy. [28039]
§ Sir Paul BeresfordThe only review that my right hon. Friend proposes at the moment is to revise PPG6, on which he has received a number of representations.
§ Mr. HansonIs the Minister aware of the continued pressure from developers for out-of-town shopping? Will he take the opportunity today to assure the House that, in any future review, he will stick closely to the Government's position of opposing out-of-town shopping and not pander to developers?
§ Sir Paul BeresfordI am sorry, but the hon. Gentleman seems to have missed the various discussions and debates that have taken place. That is the reason for the revision and the rethinking of PPG6.
§ Mr. MansWhen my hon. Friend reviews planning policy, will he take careful note of the more silly structure plans of various counties, such as Lancashire? It is suggesting that another 66,000 houses should be built in the county in the next 10 years, particularly around small towns such as Garstang and Preeshall, which would completely alter the character of the villages and towns. Those houses are not wanted in the county by anyone who knows what is going on there.
§ Sir Paul BeresfordAs my hon. Friend will know, I am abundantly aware of those points. I spent a rather enjoyable hour and a half one morning having them rammed down my throat. The only member of the Labour party present protested with a small voice, but it is his party that should get its act together on the issue.