He added: “As a constituency MP, I feel it is important that I am consistent in my approach to planning and it would be neither possible nor appropriate for me to have a view on all planning applications. I have maintained this position including when applications have been made in my own village.
“I have represented my constituents by clearly communicating the views of local residents, the parish council, and the district council to the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and made very clear to him the strength of local feeling surrounding this decision.”