§ Mr. Moateasked the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what representations he has received about inadequate planning powers to control unathorised markets and motor car and motor cycle racing events; and if he will be willing to meet representatives of district councils to discuss means of improving planning control over these activities.
(2) what statutory controls exist on the use of land for the holding of markets without planning permission, or for the holding of motor cycle and motor car racing events; and if he is satisfied that they enable the planning authorities to act promptly to prevent activities of this kind.
§ Mr. John SilkinAlthough the temporary use of land for 14 days in a year for these activities is permitted by the Town and Country Planning General Development Order 1973 (Statutory Instrument 1973 No. 31), local planning authorities have power under the order to make directions bringing such matters back into their control.
130WIn his Final Report on the Review of the Development Control System, Mr. George Dobry, QC, made recommendations about the adequacy of enforcement powers. Detailed consultations on those recommendations with the local authority associations are nearing completion.