Oral Answers to Questions Debate

Full Debate: Read Full Debate

Baroness McIntosh of Pickering

Main Page: Baroness McIntosh of Pickering (Conservative - Life peer)

Oral Answers to Questions

Baroness McIntosh of Pickering Excerpts
Monday 31st October 2011

(13 years, 1 month ago)

Commons Chamber
Read Full debate Read Hansard Text
Robert Neill Portrait Robert Neill
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

I have to say that one comes across a lot of legal opinions—I have done so myself in a previous life—and I have every respect for the author of that opinion, but we will consider it along with all the other submissions we consider in relation to the NPPF.

Baroness McIntosh of Pickering Portrait Miss Anne McIntosh (Thirsk and Malton) (Con)
- Hansard - -

Perhaps the difficulty is that the countryside is not defined and neither are green spaces or green areas. Could we perhaps refer to “appropriate” rather than “sustainable” development?

Robert Neill Portrait Robert Neill
- Hansard - - - Excerpts

I am grateful to my hon. Friend for her contribution. Obviously, we will consider any constructive suggestions, as we have made clear. It is worth bearing in mind that the presumption enhances a plan-led approach. Indeed, the significance of up-to-date plans is strengthened under our proposal, which I note that another eminent QC described in the planning encyclopaedia as an “excellent piece of work”.