Written question asked by Jack Dromey (Labour) on Monday, 12 September 2011, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 14 September 2011. It was answered by Greg Clark (Conservative) on Monday, 10 October 2011 on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Local Development Frameworks

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what legal advice his Department has sought on whether (a) adopted and (b) post-examination local development frameworks will be technically out-of-date once the national planning policy framework is adopted.

Answer: In line with the practice of previous administrations, the Government do not disclose their legal advice.Notwithstanding, it is a common occurrence—under this and previous administrations—for central Government to make amendments or updates to national planning guidance.In such circumstances, it is a matter for the local planning authority to assess the weight and relevance to be given to the new policies when making decisions on individual planning applications.

Secondary information