§ Dr. David Clarkasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will outline the criteria he applies in deciding whether to consult interested organisations on draft circulars on planning and which organisations to consult.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerIt is customary to consult the local authority associations and other interested organisations on draft circulars on planning matters, particularly where these introduce new procedures or are likely to make new demands on local authority manpower. The need for prior consultation and the range of interests consulted depends on the circumstances.
§ Dr. David Clarkasked the Secretary of State for the Environment what was the most recent occasion on which his Department issued a circular on planning policy without previously consulting the relevant local authority associations.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerThe last occasion on which a planning circular was published without prior consultation was on 22 November 1983, circular 25/83: The Town and Country Planning (Fees for Applications and Deemed Applications) Regulations 1983, which related to the revised scale of fees.
§ Dr. David Clarkasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will indicate the policy areas that will be covered by the proposed circular on planning controls announced on 22 April.
§ Mr. Kenneth BakerWe have in mind that the circular and associated booklet should deal with planning matters which are of particular relevance to the development proposals of small firms.