§ Mr. MillerTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he will publish the Government's response to the Environment Committee's report on shopping centres, fourth report, Session 1996–97 HC210; and if he will make a statement. [12317]
§ Mr. CabornThe Government have today laid before Parliament their response to the Environment Committee's report on shopping centres which was published in March 1997.
The Government, in responding to the Committee's report, reaffirm the objectives of the current planning policy guidance in PPG6: "Town Centres and Retail Developments". This guidance seeks to sustain and enhance the vitality and viability of our existing city, town and district centres. The Government are strongly committed to ensuring that such centres act as the focus for investment, particularly in retail, office, leisure and other appropriate developments, so as to provide easy access to a wide range of facilities and services by a choice of means of transport.
This does not represent a change in Government policy, but rather continues the policies already established. I think that this will be seen as good news by the development industry and by others seeking planning permission, who will welcome the reassurance that continuity of policy provides.