§ Mr. Roderickasked the Secretary of State for the Environment if, in view of the disaster at Flixborough, he will review planning consents so as to ensure 557W that new developments of a potentially dangerous nature will not be allowed near residences.
§ Mr. OakesLocal authorities have been urged to take safety factors into account when deciding planning applications for development of a potentially hazardous nature. Circular 1/72 of January 1972 asked local planning authorities to seek advice from Her Majesty's Factory Inspectorate in appropriate cases. My right hon. Friend is considering what additional advice may be needed.
The Government are concerned to ensure adequate arrangements for consultation between local planning authorities and the Health and Safety Commission to be set up under the Health and Safety at Work Bill at present before the House; and that local planning authorities have adequate information about hazardous uses, particularly uses already established in their areas. Provision for this is, therefore, included in the Bill, and urgent consideration is being given to how the powers might most effectively be exercised.