HC Deb 10 May 2001 vol 368 cc260-1W
Mrs. Curtis-Thomas

To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions when he plans to issue new regional planning guidance. [160842]

Ms Beverley Hughes

There is a rolling programme of review for regional planning guidance (RPG) and the table indicates the current position for each region.

The examination in public for the north-west RPG concluded in February 2001 and the panel's report is due next month. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State will consult on proposed changes then proceed to issue final RPG. It is hoped that this process can be completed by the end of the year.

Mr. Meacher

It is normal practice to respond to a Select Committee report within two months of its publication. However, because of the forthcoming dissolution of this Parliament, the Government will be unable to respond within the normal time scale. It will now be for the incoming Administration to determine the terms of the response to the Committee's report.