VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Planning

Asked by Sir James CleverlyConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 12 September 2025UIN 75193

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what role the precautionary principle plays in the planning system.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook

The National Planning Policy Framework sets clear expectations that a precautionary approach should be taken across a range of issues including where development could occur in locations affected by flood risk, coastal change or various other natural or man-made hazards, or where it could affect areas or assets that are protected for their natural or historic value. The Environmental Principles Duty, established by the Environment Act, requires Ministers to consider the precautionary principle whilst developing policy on planning.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim