§ Mr. Arthur Jonesasked the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects to receive the interim report by Mr. George Dobry QC on development control.
§ Mr. RipponMr. Dobry submitted his report on 31st December to my right hon. and learned Friend the Secretary of State for Wales and myself. It is being published today and a copy is available in the Library. My right hon. and learned Friend and I are most grateful to Mr. Dobry for this very prompt report and to the members of the group who have advised him.
This interim report, which recognises the necessity for and great merits of our planning system, nevertheless identifies a number of weaknesses and delays ; and puts forward many ideas for simplifying, improving and accelerating the handling of planning applications and appeals. Mr. Dobry's final report will take account of comments on these interim conclusions, but my right hon. and learned Friend and I are considering urgently what action can be taken without awaiting the final report.