Steve Baker
Main Page: Steve Baker (Conservative - Wycombe)(12 years, 2 months ago)
Commons ChamberRead Full debate Read Hansard Text
Mr Pickles
It is as the right hon. Gentleman says.
Of course we are not looking to affect my hon. Friend’s constituency. The green belt is immensely important. It is a green lung and prevents major conurbations from bumping into one another.
Steve Baker (Wycombe) (Con)
Will my right hon. Friend take steps to diminish planning inspectors’ powers over those who are democratically elected?
Mr Pickles
My hon. Friend must have come across some grumpy planning inspectors. By and large, they are there to introduce the national planning policy framework, and to ensure that decisions are made in accordance with it. Local democratically elected representatives have a duty to look to the well-being of their constituents not only now, but in future. There must always be a balance, but the green belt remains very safe.