§ Mr. Michael BrownTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment when he expects the public inquiry to begin its work in determining planning applications by Mr. J. Jackson which are being called in by his Department; how long he expects the inquiry to last; and when he hopes to be in a position to give his final decision on the application.
§ Mr. ChopeArrangements are in hand for a public inquiry. I understand that the planning inspectorate will shortly be in touch with Mr. Jackson with dates when an inquiry might begin.
It is impossible at this stage to say how long the inquiry will last or indeed when the Secretary of State is likely to issue his decision. But I can assure my hon. Friend that all steps will be taken to ensure an early decision.