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<p>The Local Government Act 1972 allows local planning authorities (including National
Parks) to arrange for the discharge of any of its functions by a committee, sub-committee,
or an officer. The operation of such committees, including which applications are
considered by members and the procedure by which they are governed, are administrative
matters for the National Park Authority.</p><p>Like other planning committees, where
a decision is made by a National Park planning committee, members should carefully
consider all the evidence before them and must be prepared to modify or change their
initial view in light of the arguments and evidence presented to them. They must make
their final decision at the meeting with an open mind based on this evidence. The
law requires that planning decisions are made in accordance with the local development
plan, unless material considerations indicate otherwise.</p><p>National Park authorities
must also promote and maintain high standards of conduct by their members. Members
have to abide by their authorities’ code of conduct and this must be consistent with
the seven ‘Nolan’ principles of standards in public life. National Park Authorities
are responsible for ensuring members observe their codes of conduct and maintain high
standards.</p>
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