asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what steps he takes to examine the planning implications of developments for which authority is sought by private Bill; and if he will make a statement on the specific steps taken in the case of the Felixstowe Dock and Railway Bill.

The Government do not normally get directly involved in private Bills unless national policies are prejudiced. My Department is at present considering the provisions of the Bill and will decide in due course whether to submit a report to Parliament.