Local Democracy, Economic Development and Construction Bill [HL]

We have added our names to Amendment 175, which raises similar concerns about the Secretary of State’s role. Our amendment in this group is Amendment 174A, suggested to us by the Local Government Association, which rightly anticipated our concern as regards the involvement of local authorities. Under Section 4 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, the regional planning body has to seek the advice of upper-tier authorities, national parks authorities and, I believe, the Broads Authority in drawing up the regional spatial strategies. The authorities, on the other hand, are under a duty to give advice. This has not been replicated in the current Bill. I am told that the current arrangements for regional spatial strategies work well. Therefore, my amendment would put the current provision into the Bill, which seems entirely reasonable, given that it provides for a new strategy to replace the regional spatial strategy. I say that knowing the role of the leaders’ board, which may not consist of every authority in the region. My amendment is not just about status, but ensuring that those who can have a sensible input into the strategy have the opportunity to make it and, conversely, can be called on to make that input. I was contacted this morning by the English National Park Authorities Association—which may be why the noble Lord, Lord Judd, is present; I look forward to what he has to say—offering its support for this amendment. It commented particularly on the expertise that is available and might be lost if the provision is not replicated. The association told me that it has been in correspondence with the Minister, who confirmed to it that the national park authorities will retain their role under Section 4 of the 2004 Act. I should be grateful if the Minister would clarify the position.