asked the Secretary of State for the Environment whether he proposes to review and update the present advice to local planning authorities as contained in circular 44/61, on surface developments in coal mining areas; and if he intends to consult the representatives of surface developers such as owners, tenants and other parties having a legal interest in the land in question.
Issues related to surface development in coal mining areas were raised by the commission on energy and the environment in its coal study report. The Government are currently preparing its response, and consideration is being given to whether the advice contained in circular 44/61 should be reviewed and updated. I should be happy to receive the views of representatives of surface developers on this.