§ Lord Melchettasked Her Majesty's Government:
Following the reply given to Viscount Hanworth on 4th December 1985 (col. 1401) what measures 534WA are being taken to improve the exchange of information before public inquiries open, and whether they will consider proposing amendments to the Standing Orders of both Houses of Parliament to ensure that a similar exchange of information takes place before the consideration by a Committee of either House of an opposed Private Bill.
§ The Minister of State, Department of the Environment (Lord Elton)The Council on Tribunals have been asked for their views on a draft code of practice for the pre-inquiry stages of major inquiries. The purpose of the code is to help the inspector and the parties prepare for the inquiry; the presentation, in advance of it, of information and views is one of its major elements. A copy has been placed in the Library of the House. Ministers have no plans to put to either House proposals for changes to procedures on the lines suggested by the noble Lord.