Planning Process: Probity
Debate between Christopher Pincher and John Howell(3 years, 10 months ago)
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Christopher Pincher
The planning law in this country is very clear, as the hon. Lady knows. I suggest that she go and read it.
John Howell (Henley) (Con)
Does my right hon. Friend agree that the probity of the planning system has been enhanced by the Secretary of State’s decision to proceed with South Oxfordshire District Council’s local plan and that the holding of an examination in public online is a very good, transparent way of proceeding?
Christopher Pincher
Virtual proceedings are an effective way of ensuring that the light of public interest shines upon planning decisions, and I think the decision made in respect of South Oxfordshire was the right one. As I have said before, we will act always with fairness and probity, but we will also act to make sure that the Government’s objectives to build more homes in the right places—the sorts of homes people want and need—are met.