Commons Bill [HL]

In response to the comments made by both the noble Baroness and the noble Duke, certain matters could be resolved quite easily. The noble Duke asked about the possibility of an impact assessment being made on agricultural sustainability. Clearly either the Secretary of State or the National Assembly would have the personnel who would be able to provide the expertise to resolve such a matter. The planning application referred to in this amendment should be approved by the local planning authority for the proposed non-agricultural use. In drafting the amendment, I did not think that it would be—I shall not say ““dismissed”” because that is unkind to the noble Baroness—shunted sideways in this way. It is logical and I draw the attention of the Committee to the fact that there are considerable problems in some areas where common land is regarded as fair game for the kind of development that has just been brought to the attention of noble Lords. However, I shall read the response given by the noble Baroness. I understand some of the difficulties that have been raised by noble Lords and so, at this stage, I beg leave to withdraw the amendment. Amendment, by leave, withdrawn. Clause 15, as amended, agreed to. Clause 16 [Deregistration and exchange: orders]: