§ 43. Mr. Maxwell-Hyslopasked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he is aware that officers of his Department's area offices both issue directions to local planning authorities to refuse planning applications and deter mine appeals against those directions; and whether he will take action to separate such functions.
§ Mr. Graham PageMy right hon. and learned Friend is responsible for both highways and planning. His powers of direction concerning proposed development affecting a trunk road are exercised through the Regional Controller (Roads and Transportation). His decision upon planning appeals arising from such directions is given through the Regional Controller (Housing and Planning). The Department's procedures separate the highways and planning functions and ensure that decisions on planning appeals are reached with fairness, openness and impartiality.