§ Captain Kerbyasked the Minister of Housing and Local Government and Minister for Welsh Affairs if he is satisfied that applicants for planning approval are receiving appropriate advice from local authorities, so that planning appeals are not being lodged needlessly with his Department; and if he will give new guidance to local authorities to explain to applicants when their plans stand no chance of eventual approval.
§ Mr. RipponLocal planning authorities have more than once been asked to discuss proposals for development with applicants for permission, and where they think it necessary to refuse permission to explain their reasons clearly. They have to deal with very large numbers of applications for permission but they do try to give appropriate advice. My right hon. Friend does not think that new guidance would help at the present time, but the matter will be kept in mind.