The Secretary of State’s policy on call-ins is set out in Richard Caborn’s statement of 16 June 1999 in reply to a Parliamentary Question tabled by Mr Bill Michie MP.
His policy is to be very selective about calling in planning applications. He will, in general only take this step if planning issues of more than local importance are involved. Such cases may include, for example, those which, in his opinion:
- may conflict with national policies on important matters;
- could have significant effects beyond their immediate locality;
- give rise to substantial regional controversy;
- raise significant architectural and urban design issues; or
- may involve the interests of national security or foreign Governments.
