Local Plans (Hansard, 13 February 1998)

§ Mr. Chope
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if HM Government have(a) made and (b) proposes objection to the contents of the draft Verwood, Three Legged Cross and St. Leonards and St. Ives Local Plan. [28523]

§ Mr. Raynsford
The Secretary of State made eight objections in January 1993. These objections have been maintained.

§ Mr. Chope
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if the Government will direct East Dorset District Council to withdraw the Verwood draft local plan. [28482]

§ Mr. Raynsford
The Secretary of State has no power to direct withdrawal of a draft plan.

§ Mr. Chope
To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions if he will introduce a maximum period within which a local authority has to adopt a draft plan after completion of all stages prior to adoption; and if he will make a statement. [28481]

§ Mr. Raynsford
No, but we will be issuing a consultation paper on changes to development plan procedures shortly.