Mr. John Mulholland:

Yes, indeed. That is a point. Depending on the level of expenditure and the simplicity of the scheme, Part 8 can be very useful and can deliver quickly, if, for example, the work involves the laying of pipes or the installation of a small pumping station or treatment plant. That can be done quite simply. It was done for many years under the small schemes programme. It was done quietly and without too much controversy over it. However, we all have to accept that we are in a different operating environment now. I take the Senator's point. Part 8, local decisions and discretion by local members is a very useful way of delivering planning for smaller schemes.