HC Deb 30 January 1974 vol 868 cc106-7W
Mr. Sandelson

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he has reviewed his recently announced policy of restricting the issue of office development permits; and if he will make a statement.

Mr. Rippon

Yes. I am satisfied that in present circumstances it is necessary to continue the restrictions in both the public and private sectors for the time being. I have, however, decided that there is a limited number of classes of application where it would be unreasonable to withhold permits if the applications are otherwise acceptable.

These categories are:

  1. (i) Buildings completed or in an advanced stage of construction where changed circumstances necessitate a new permit if the building is to be occupied.
  2. (ii) Completed buildings where change of use to offices with minimal construction work is proposed.
  3. (iii) Amendments of detail or extensions in time of existing permits.
  4. (iv) Applications associated with the industrial development certificate control.

In addition, permits will be issued in fulfilment of specific undertakings made before the recent restrictions were introduced.

I shall continue to keep this policy under review.