§ Dr. David Clarkasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in the light of the decision by Lancaster city council on 19 July to apply for an article 4 direction in respect of land in the forest of Bowland area of outstanding natural beauty, he will now discuss with the city council the scope for using a discontinuance order to remove the 25 mushroom-growing and composting buildings already started by the farmer at Netter lodge.
§ Mr. WaldegraveLancaster city council knows of its powers to make a discontinuance order under section 5148W of the Town and Country Planning Act 1971 and it is for it to decide whether to use them. Such an order would not become effective until confirmed by me after considering, if necessary following a public inquiry, any objections from those affected by it. It would not be appropriate for me to have any discussions with the city council which might appear to prejudice my consideration of any order.