asked the Secretary of State for the Environment, in view of represent tations from residents in the Barnborough area about plans by the National Coal Board to conduct mining operations there, whether he will call in the application for decision by himself.

No planning application has yet been made and it would be premature to consider the question of call-in. When any application is made the local planning authority will no doubt consider whether it should be reported to my right hon. and learned Friend as a substantial departure from the development plan.