§ Mr. Wellbelovedasked the Secretary of State for the Environment how much of the area known as the green belt has been appropriated for building and other construction purposes over the past three years.
§ Mr. FoxNo such detailed record of green belt areas is maintained by the Department. If the hon. Member will let me know of any particular issue in which he is interested I shall let him have any relevant information available to me.
§ Mr. Wellbelovedasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will list any measures currently to be considered by the Government to continue safeguarding the green belt; and if he will make a statement of the Government's policy on the green belt.
§ Mr. FoxGreen belts are established in structure and local plans. Where the green belt has regional significance it will be covered in regional strategic182W guidance. My right hon. Friend has recently issued strategic guidance for the West Midlands and is discussing with the standing conference on London and South-East regional planning updated strategic guidance in the South-East. The Government attach great importance to maintaining severe restraint on development in areas of approved green belt which should be long term in character.