§ Mr. BlunkettTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he will take to ensure that environmental planning decisions are taken in full appreciation of their impact on human health and that adequate public health advice is provided by the national health service to joint regional offices of the Departments of Health, Employment, Transport and Trade and Industry.
§ Mr. SackvilleI have been asked to reply.
My Department does not have joint regional offices with other Departments.
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§ Sir Paul Beresford[holding answer 19 October 1994]: Between 1984 and 1991 the following exemptions from the provisions of the Zoo Licensing Act 1981 have been granted:
It is a responsibility of regional and district directors of public health to have regard to and, when appropriate, provide advice on, all factors which may have significant impact upon the public health in their area—including those which may be associated with the consequences of planning decisions. Advice may also be obtained from the nation health service executive.
Responsibility for planning matters rests with my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment. We understand that guidance to planning authorities, and to applicants for consent to major projects, requires that impact upon human beings should be taken into account in assessing the environmental impact of development plans and projects.