§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland if he will make a statement on his policy towards the present planning laws as they apply to the land use problems presented by developments arising out of North Sea oil industry activities; and if he will say what his intentions are with regard to new legislation.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellLand use problems were comprehensively reviewed by the Select Committee on Scottish Affairs during 1971–72. The Government's observations on the Committee's report were published last month. I have no proposals at present for changes in planning law.
§ Mr. Sillarsasked the Secretary of State for Scotland how many planning applications for major developments have arisen from North Sea oil industry activities in the last two years; of these how many have been subject to a public inquiry; and what has been the average time taken between the date of the original application and the final decision to accept or reject the application.
§ Mr. Gordon CampbellThe information requested is not available. Not all planning applications relating to North306W Sea oil are referred to me; also it is not always clear whether a particular development proposal arises primarily from North Sea oil activities. However, I am seeing what information can be compiled, and will write to the hon. Member.