§ Mr. Chris SmithTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what assessment has been carried out by his Department concerning the effectiveness of the non-statutory planning procedures which have been operating over the development of Crown land; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. BaldryThe non-statutory procedures for Crown development are generally considered to work well in practice. But in the interests of greater accountability and openness, the Government believe that a more formal system is now appropriate.
In reply to a question from my hon. Friend the Member for Colchester, South and Maldon, (Mr. Whittingdale) my hon. Friend the Minister for Housing and Planning announced on 24 June 1992, Official Report, column 202, that the Government believe that it is now appropriate to bring Crown exemption under the planning system largely to an end. A public consultation paper on the removal of Crown immunity from planning law was issued on 5 November 1992 and we are currently considering responses. Any changes will be embodied in primary legislation when a suitable opportunity arises.