§ Lord Houghton of Sowerbyasked Her Majesty's Government:
Whether they possess the right to reject plans for development which may harm the environment of the Houses of Parliament.
§ Lord EltonMy right honourable friend the Secretary of State has power to call in applications for planning permission for his own determination. He also determines appeals made to him either against the refusal of planning permission or against non-determination of the application by the local authority. In reaching his decision on cases which come before him, my right honourable friend is required to take into account all material considerations.