Member

Notably, the regulations for both routes require applicants, when submitting an application, to set out the reasons why they consider the development to be of national importance and, in the case of urgent Crown development, why it is needed as a matter of urgency. The Secretary of State, or Ministers acting on his behalf, will then assess whether this justification meets the criteria set out in the Written Ministerial Statement. The gateway process provides an important safeguard, as we as Government Ministers are accountable to Parliament. In the WMS, we committed to writing to the relevant MPs when we accept proposals through this gateway process and when decisions are made under the routes. These letters are deposited in the Library of both Houses of Parliament.