§ 72. Lieut.-Colonel Bromley-Davenportasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government how many planning schemes affecting property such as that concerning the British Museum have been shelved for several years under the authority of his Department, so that those persons likely to be affected by such schemes have no idea what their future will be; and whether, in view of the unrest and anxiety about the future held by such people, he will either make definite decisions about such schemes or cancel them altogether.
§ Mr. H. BrookeI take it that my hon. and gallant Friend has in mind the procedure whereby in certain circumstances land may be designated in an approved development plan as subject to compulsory acquisition. This can only be done where the Minister is satisfied that acquisition is likely to take place within ten years, and there is much to be said for publishing details of a firm proposal of this kind. I am, however, aware that publication also brings certain difficulties in its train, and I am considering whether anything can be done to lessen these difficulties.