asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what steps he is taking to review or revise planning procedures and in particular the conduct of public inquiries: and if he will make a statement.

I am examining the recommendations of the Planning Advisory Group which, if implemented will simplify development plan procedures; and, as I informed the House last week, I am also considering changes in the methods of dealing with planning appeals. The essence of this problem is how to give those affected by schemes of development a fair opportunity to express their views, without unreasonable delay in reaching decisions.