§ 100. Mr. Anthony Greenwoodasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs under what circumstances he agrees to appeals against planning decisions being held in camera.
§ Mr. BevinsThere is no statutory requirement to hold a public inquiry into a planning appeal, and indeed many appeals are decided upon written representations by the parties. In a recent case which may be what the hon. Member has in mind, a hearing rather than a public inquiry was held at the specific request of the individual concerned, who34W stated that he would rather withdraw his appeal than have to appear in public. Since the subject of the appeal was only a matter of ten houses my right hon. Friend saw no need to insist upon a public inquiry against the appellant's wishes. Both the County Council and the District Council were represented at the hearing.