§ Mr. Clinton Davisasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if he will introduce legislation to prohibit local authorities from disclaiming liability for negligence when answering planning inquiries by house purchasers.
§ The Solicitor-GeneralI have been asked to reply.
I am aware that this practice is causing some concern. The Law Commission are reviewing it in their work on local land charges. They will shortly consult those principally affected and they appreciate the need for an early report. Until the result of this review is known, it would be premature to consider legislation.