asked the Minister of Town and Country Planning whether he is aware that Government Departments have in some cases erected important buildings in an area without notification or consultation with the county planning officer or local authority concerned; and whether he will arrange for the local planning authorities to be consulted, in future, so that local knowledge and advice in planning can be utilised to the full both for present and future development plans?

I am aware that in certain cases the construction of buildings by, or on behalf of, Government Departments has been started without notification to, or consultation with, the local planning authority concerned. The importance of such consultation, before development takes place, has throughout been impressed on all Departments undertaking or promoting development. In general, that consultation now takes place so far as the requirements of defence permit. If my hon. and gallant Friend has any particular cases in mind, I shall be pleased to look into them.