Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the Fair Funding Review will ensure that the most deprived areas of the country will receive the biggest increases in funding.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government published the local government finance policy statement Local government finance policy statement 2026-27 to 2028-29 - GOV.UK and government response to the Fair Funding Review 2.0 on Thursday 20 November which set out the government’s plans to introduce a fairer and evidence-led system, that will realign funding with need and deprivation.

The government has used the most robust and up to date evidence available. On this basis, we are now using data from the recently published 2025 Indices of Multiple Deprivation in our assessment of need.

We expect that by 2028-29, the top 10% most deprived authorities will see a significant increase in their Core Spending Power per head, compared to the least deprived.

We will publish provisional local authority allocations at the upcoming provisional multi-year Settlement in December. Proposals and allocations will be subject to consultation and the usual Parliamentary process.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to improve access to homelessness services for people sleeping rough.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Government has increased funding for homelessness services by £316 million to a total of more than £1 billion in 2025/26. This includes £255.5 million through the Rough Sleeping Prevention and Recovery Grant for local authorities to tackle rough sleeping. We announced £69.9 million top-up funding for the grant in October 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department has held discussions with Peterborough City Council on the options for local government reorganisation in Cambridgeshire.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

My officials have held discussions with all the councils in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough, including Peterborough City Council, as they have developed proposals in response to their invitation. Those proposals are due to be submitted on 28 November.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential merits of ensuring that the Fair Funding Review will ensure that the most deprived areas of the country will see the biggest increases in funding.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government published the local government finance policy statement Local government finance policy statement 2026-27 to 2028-29 - GOV.UK and government response to the Fair Funding Review 2.0 on Thursday 20 November which set out the government’s plans to introduce a fairer and evidence-led system, that will realign funding with need and deprivation.

The government has used the most robust and up to date evidence available. On this basis, we are now using data from the recently published 2025 Indices of Multiple Deprivation in our assessment of need.

We expect that by 2028-29, the top 10% most deprived authorities will see a significant increase in their Core Spending Power per head, compared to the least deprived.

We will publish provisional local authority allocations at the upcoming provisional multi-year Settlement in December. Proposals and allocations will be subject to consultation and the usual Parliamentary process.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to improve access to housing for renters without traditional forms of affordability evidence.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to determining whether any given tenancy will be sustainable and good landlords already assess tenant suitability on the basis of individual’s circumstances.

Landlords and agents remain free to undertake referencing and affordability checks with a view to ascertaining whether a tenancy is sustainable. This may include a history of rental payments, but other available referencing criteria can also be taken into account.

Where a private landlord or agent is not satisfied by the outcome of pre-tenancy checks, there remain options available to provide further reassurance such as requiring a tenant to provide a guarantor. Professional guarantor services are also available and can help prospective tenants acquire a guarantor in circumstances where they otherwise would not have been able to do so. Local authorities may also offer guarantee schemes or assistance with rent payments to help people on low incomes or at risk of homelessness to secure a property.

The government has no current plans to legislate to require social or private landlords and agents to accept rental payment history as proof of affordability.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will bring forward legislative proposals to require landlords and agents to accept rental payment history as proof of affordability.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to determining whether any given tenancy will be sustainable and good landlords already assess tenant suitability on the basis of individual’s circumstances.

Landlords and agents remain free to undertake referencing and affordability checks with a view to ascertaining whether a tenancy is sustainable. This may include a history of rental payments, but other available referencing criteria can also be taken into account.

Where a private landlord or agent is not satisfied by the outcome of pre-tenancy checks, there remain options available to provide further reassurance such as requiring a tenant to provide a guarantor. Professional guarantor services are also available and can help prospective tenants acquire a guarantor in circumstances where they otherwise would not have been able to do so. Local authorities may also offer guarantee schemes or assistance with rent payments to help people on low incomes or at risk of homelessness to secure a property.

The government has no current plans to legislate to require social or private landlords and agents to accept rental payment history as proof of affordability.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will make rental payments acceptable as proof of affordability for housing applications.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

There is no one-size-fits-all approach to determining whether any given tenancy will be sustainable and good landlords already assess tenant suitability on the basis of individual’s circumstances.

Landlords and agents remain free to undertake referencing and affordability checks with a view to ascertaining whether a tenancy is sustainable. This may include a history of rental payments, but other available referencing criteria can also be taken into account.

Where a private landlord or agent is not satisfied by the outcome of pre-tenancy checks, there remain options available to provide further reassurance such as requiring a tenant to provide a guarantor. Professional guarantor services are also available and can help prospective tenants acquire a guarantor in circumstances where they otherwise would not have been able to do so. Local authorities may also offer guarantee schemes or assistance with rent payments to help people on low incomes or at risk of homelessness to secure a property.

The government has no current plans to legislate to require social or private landlords and agents to accept rental payment history as proof of affordability.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 20 October 2025 to Question 78227 on Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government: Standards, if he will provide the data for each of those metrics from July 2024.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The metrics currently used in the dashboard are mainly derived from datasets available on the Office for National Statistics and GOV.UK websites, supported by both additional internal analysis and data sources provided under licence by third party organisations with restrictions on publication. This is used to support live policy development.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to support the adaptation of existing buildings to support better disability access.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government recognises how important home adaptations are in enabling disabled people to live as independently as possible in a safe and suitable environment. The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a capital grant administered by local authorities in England that can help meet the cost of adaptations for people of all ages and tenures to make their home safe and suitable for their needs. This government has boosted funding for the DFG to £711 million for both 2024-25 and 2025-26.

Accessibility standards for homes are governed by Part M of the Building Regulations 2010. The Building Regulations apply to new homes, or those undergoing a material change of use. There are three standards of accessibility prescribed in the Building Regulations: M4(1); M4(2) and M4(3).

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to ensure that newly constructed buildings have good disability access.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government recognises how important home adaptations are in enabling disabled people to live as independently as possible in a safe and suitable environment. The Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG) is a capital grant administered by local authorities in England that can help meet the cost of adaptations for people of all ages and tenures to make their home safe and suitable for their needs. This government has boosted funding for the DFG to £711 million for both 2024-25 and 2025-26.

Accessibility standards for homes are governed by Part M of the Building Regulations 2010. The Building Regulations apply to new homes, or those undergoing a material change of use. There are three standards of accessibility prescribed in the Building Regulations: M4(1); M4(2) and M4(3).

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 10 October 2025 to Question 69291 on Members: Correspondence, if he will (a) assign the correspondence letter to an incumbent Minister and (b) provide a substantive reply.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The former Deputy Prime Minister is no longer in post. The questions raised in the hon. Member’s correspondence have already been addressed via parliamentary questions from the hon. Member and his colleagues. I specifically refer the hon. Member to the answers given to Questions UIN 52866 on 27 May 2025, 74185 on 2 September 2025, 84951 on 10 November 2025, 85494 on 5 November 2025, 85495 on 5 November 2025, 88674 on 17 November 2025, and HL10730 on 13 October 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the Government paid a second homes council tax premium in (a) March and (b) April 2025 for the then Deputy Prime Minister’s official residence in Admiralty House.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Following the introduction of the second homes premium on 1 April, this has been paid in full in a one-off full payment in July 2025. This payment was made on the date the invoice was received from Westminster City Council.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will publish the names of the (a) organisations and (b) stakeholders that have viewed the Working Group on Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia Definition's draft definition of Islamophobia/Anti-Muslim hatred in advance of publication.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

As part of the Government’s careful consideration of the Working Group’s advice, officials have undertaken some limited and focused informal engagement with stakeholders. It is standard practice for Government to engage stakeholders on policy development.

Following consideration of the above, we will make any relevant announcements in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether external (a) organisations and (b) stakeholders have been invited to view the Working Group on Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia Definition's draft definition of Islamophobia/Anti-Muslim hatred in advance of publication.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

As part of the Government’s careful consideration of the Working Group’s advice, officials have undertaken some limited and focused informal engagement with stakeholders. It is standard practice for Government to engage stakeholders on policy development.

Following consideration of the above, we will make any relevant announcements in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will publish the proposed definition of Islamophobia/Anti-Muslim Hatred in advance of its adoption.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

As part of the Government’s careful consideration of the Working Group’s advice, officials have undertaken some limited and focused informal engagement with stakeholders. It is standard practice for Government to engage stakeholders on policy development.

Following consideration of the above, we will make any relevant announcements in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what progress his Department has made in implementing the conclusion of the 2014 consultation on modernising parish poll rules; and if he will take legislative steps to (a) strengthen trigger thresholds and (b) prevent the misuse of parish polls.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government acknowledges that a significant time has passed since the coalition government consulted on proposals to modernise the parish polls.

The government has no immediate plans to amend the parish poll regulations.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the value for money of parish polls.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government acknowledges that a significant time has passed since the coalition government consulted on proposals to modernise the parish polls.

The government has no immediate plans to amend the parish poll regulations.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will publish the advice provided to the Government by the Working Group on Anti-Muslim Hatred/Islamophobia Definition.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

As part of the Government’s careful consideration of the Working Group’s advice, officials have undertaken some limited and focused informal engagement with stakeholders. It is standard practice for Government to engage stakeholders on policy development.

Following consideration of the above, we will make any relevant announcements in due course.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to help protect social tenants not in receipt of housing benefit from increases in service charges.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Registered Providers of social housing are expected to set reasonable and transparent service charges for tenants that reflect the service being provided. Tenants should be supplied with clear information about how service charges are set.

The government’s policy statement on rents for social housing makes clear out that Registered Providers should endeavour to keep increases for service charges within the limit on rent increases, which is CPI (as at September in the previous year) +1 percentage point, to help keep charges affordable.

On 4 July, the government published a consultation on strengthening leaseholder protections over charges and services. The proposals will apply to tenants of local authorities and private registered providers who pay both fixed and variable service charges.It can be found on gov.uk here.

For an overview of the proposals set out in the consultation, I refer the hon. Member to the associated Written Ministerial Statement made on 4 July 2025 (HCWS780). This consultation closed on 26 September and we are analysing responses.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that vulnerable tenants are protected if housing management companies dismiss or ignore evidence of harassment.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Estate management companies managing freehold estates do not have a dedicated role in dealing with anti-social behaviour and harassment. However, they may wish to engage with local authorities and the police to help prevent or deal with such behaviour.

Leaseholders experiencing anti-social behaviour and harassment may contact the government-funded Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE), which provides free initial legal advice and information.

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

Following implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, private landlords will be able to take action to evict anti-social tenants quicker, with landlords being able to make a claim to the court immediately in all anti-social behaviour cases.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

General guidance on the use of domestic CCTV systems is published by the Information Commissioner here.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department has made an assessment of the potential impact of the provision in the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill to remove public notices in local papers concerning changes to local authority governance arrangements on local democratic engagement.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Schedule 25 of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill makes provision to amend statutory notice requirements under the Local Government Act 2000, concerning changes to local authority governance arrangements.

In practice, this change will affect only a very small number of councils. Over 80% of councils already operate the leader and cabinet model of governance and provisions in the Bill will limit future changes to local authority governance.

The provision does not prevent local authorities from publishing notices in printed newspapers where this is considered the most appropriate way to inform residents. Instead, local authorities will be able to choose the most suitable communication channels for their area, including local newspapers.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of banning property management companies from charging disproportionate fees for homeowners to obtain documentation relating to the sale of their properties.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 62778 on 4 July 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, how many community assets were registered by local authorities for each year since 2015.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The assets of community scheme is administered by local authorities for their areas. Local authorities are responsible for maintaining and publishing their local list of assets of community value and the Government does not hold a central list of this information. You can find out information about your local scheme by contacting your local authority.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment his Department has made of the potential merits of making unique property reference numbers a requisite field in the private rented sector database.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

My government already intends to record unique property reference numbers on the Private Rented Sector Database in all instances where they are available.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will bring forward legislative proposals to make public toilet provision a statutory duty for local authorities.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Government does not propose to introduce a statutory duty at this time.

We recognise the importance of toilet provision and have taken steps to support local leaders. At the 2025 Spending Review, we committed over £5 billion in new grant funding over the next three years for essential local services such as toilets. In addition, we continue to provide 100% mandatory business rates relief for separately assessed public toilets.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, (a) how many new social houses have been built in the Ely and East Cambridgeshire constituency in each of the last three years, and (b) how many the Government intends to build in the constituency in the next three years.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The number of new social homes delivered, split by provider, geography and whether they are new build or acquisitions, can be found in the affordable housing supply statistics on gov.uk here.

On 2 July, the government set out its five-point plan for kickstarting a decade of social and affordable housing renewal. Taken together, the grant funding support and regulatory certainty and stability that this government is providing will enable Registered Providers to quickly ramp up investment in existing and new stock. Further detail can be found in the Written Ministerial Statement made on that day (HCWS771).

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether he will encourage local authorities to utilise furnished tenancies in their social housing stock to provide a safe and stable environment for those who are leaving homelessness, often without any possessions or financial savings.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Government is committed to moving away from a system focussed on crisis response, taking a holistic approach to preventing homelessness in the first place. That's why we've invested a record amount in prevention services this year as part of our £1 billion funding for homelessness services.

The Household Support Fund enables local authorities in England to provide discretionary support to vulnerable households in the most need with the cost of essentials, such as energy, water and food.

Local authorities have the flexibility to design their scheme within the parameters set by Department for Work and Pensions, and this can include supporting vulnerable households with the cost of wider essentials, which could include furniture, furnishings and appliances.

We consulted earlier this year on a reformed Decent Homes Standard for the social and private rented sectors. The consultation can be found on gov.uk here. It proposed that the Government develop best practice guidance for all landlords including providing information about where tenants in need can access help on furniture provision. The consultation has now closed, and responses are being analysed. More information about future guidance will be released as part of the Government response.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his department has considered the impact of furniture poverty on homelessness; and what steps they are taking to prevent homelessness by ensuring low-income households can access essential items.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Government is committed to moving away from a system focussed on crisis response, taking a holistic approach to preventing homelessness in the first place. That's why we've invested a record amount in prevention services this year as part of our £1 billion funding for homelessness services.

The Household Support Fund enables local authorities in England to provide discretionary support to vulnerable households in the most need with the cost of essentials, such as energy, water and food.

Local authorities have the flexibility to design their scheme within the parameters set by Department for Work and Pensions, and this can include supporting vulnerable households with the cost of wider essentials, which could include furniture, furnishings and appliances.

We consulted earlier this year on a reformed Decent Homes Standard for the social and private rented sectors. The consultation can be found on gov.uk here. It proposed that the Government develop best practice guidance for all landlords including providing information about where tenants in need can access help on furniture provision. The consultation has now closed, and responses are being analysed. More information about future guidance will be released as part of the Government response.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment his Department has made of the importance of initiatives such as furnished tenancies to reduce material deprivation amongst vulnerable groups.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 84054 on 3 November 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, how many properties with EPC ratings of (a) F and (b) G rating are let by (i) Local Authorities and (ii) Housing Associations

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Information on the EPC ratings of social housing let by local authorities and housing associations, as well as other tenures, can be found in the latest English Housing Survey on gov.uk here. In the 2023-24 survey, 0.3% of homes let by local authorities and 0.4% of homes let by housing associations have an EPC rating of band F or G.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department plans to introduce requirements for the installation of swift bricks in new housing developments.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 62367 on 2 July 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what his planned timeline is for publishing the final Local Government Outcomes Framework.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Local Government Outcomes Framework will be published alongside the provisional Local Government Finance Settlement. The data will be displayed in a digital tool from Spring 2026.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if his Department will review the accountability mechanisms for housing management companies that fail to enforce tenancy agreements or antisocial behaviour policies.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Estate management companies managing freehold estates do not have a dedicated role in dealing with anti-social behaviour and harassment. However, they may wish to engage with local authorities and the police to help prevent or deal with such behaviour.

Leaseholders experiencing anti-social behaviour and harassment may contact the government-funded Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE), which provides free initial legal advice and information.

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

Following implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, private landlords will be able to take action to evict anti-social tenants quicker, with landlords being able to make a claim to the court immediately in all anti-social behaviour cases.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

General guidance on the use of domestic CCTV systems is published by the Information Commissioner here.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what guidance his Department provides to housing management companies on the use of domestic CCTV in shared housing developments.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Estate management companies managing freehold estates do not have a dedicated role in dealing with anti-social behaviour and harassment. However, they may wish to engage with local authorities and the police to help prevent or deal with such behaviour.

Leaseholders experiencing anti-social behaviour and harassment may contact the government-funded Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE), which provides free initial legal advice and information.

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

Following implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, private landlords will be able to take action to evict anti-social tenants quicker, with landlords being able to make a claim to the court immediately in all anti-social behaviour cases.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

General guidance on the use of domestic CCTV systems is published by the Information Commissioner here.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what guidance his Department provides to local authorities on including locally manufactured materials such as natural stone in planning conditions and development frameworks.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

National design guidance, which supports the National Planning Policy Framework, states that well-designed places should be responsive to local history, culture and heritage. The guidance highlights the role of resources, including the careful selection of materials and construction techniques, to minimise any environmental impacts.

A local design code can introduce requirements on the use of materials for new development, if appropriate.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the Government plans to ensure that local authorities recognise natural stone as a low-carbon material in planning guidance and local plan development.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

National design guidance, which supports the National Planning Policy Framework, states that well-designed places should be responsive to local history, culture and heritage. The guidance highlights the role of resources, including the careful selection of materials and construction techniques, to minimise any environmental impacts.

A local design code can introduce requirements on the use of materials for new development, if appropriate.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of lowering affordable housing requirements on levels of social housing supply in London in the (a) long and (b) short term.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

When it comes to development, London faces challenges that are common to all parts of England over recent years. These include a significant increase in building material prices; a rise in financing costs; and planning capacity and capability pressures.

In addition, the capital faces a number of challenges unique to its housing market which differs in important ways from the rest of the country. These include the fact that London is overwhelmingly reliant on flatted developments; has depended over recent decades on demand from international buyers and investors; and has a higher proportion of landowners (and traders acting on their behalf) who are global investors allocating development funding based on competing returns globally and across asset classes.

The combination of these and other factors has resulted in a perfect storm for housebuilding in our capital. Overall home starts in London in 2024-25 totalled just 3,990. Affordable housing starts in 2024/25 were less than 20% of their 2022/23 level. In the first quarter of this year, more than a third of London Boroughs recorded zero housing starts.

My Department has engaged extensively with housebuilders, registered providers of social housing, and London Boroughs to understand fully the housing delivery challenge in London and to develop measures to address it.

While viability pressures are impacting residential development in many parts of the country, we know they are particularly acute in London. Those pressures were already resulting in proportions of affordable housing being reduced on schemes following viability assessment. According to Greater London Authority (GLA) monitoring data, the average affordable housing level of referable applications that have been approved through their viability tested route was 20 per cent between 2022-2024.

To address this, the Secretary of State and the Mayor of London announced a new package of support for housebuilding in London that included developers to access a new, time-limited planning route to incentivise build out. This will sit alongside the existing Fast Track and Viability Tested routes and will enable developers to secure planning permission without a viability assessment on private land where they commit to 20 per cent affordable housing (60% of which must be Social Rent), of which half will be eligible to receive grant funding, with a gain-share mechanism to increase affordable delivery on sites that continue into the next decade where market conditions improve.

Our engagement with the sector indicates that these measures will encourage schemes to come forward, and existing schemes to progress, in the near-term, and will thereby support a rapid recovery in housing delivery.

The GLA opened a consultation for this time-limited measure on Thursday 27 November, and published a background information document with supporting evidence for decision making which can be found here.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment his Department has made of the effectiveness of estate management companies’ responsibilities in addressing antisocial behaviour complaints from tenants and leaseholders.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Estate management companies managing freehold estates do not have a dedicated role in dealing with anti-social behaviour and harassment. However, they may wish to engage with local authorities and the police to help prevent or deal with such behaviour.

Leaseholders experiencing anti-social behaviour and harassment may contact the government-funded Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE), which provides free initial legal advice and information.

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

Following implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, private landlords will be able to take action to evict anti-social tenants quicker, with landlords being able to make a claim to the court immediately in all anti-social behaviour cases.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

General guidance on the use of domestic CCTV systems is published by the Information Commissioner here.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department plans to introduce statutory obligations on housing management companies to act promptly and effectively in cases of harassment and antisocial behaviour.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Estate management companies managing freehold estates do not have a dedicated role in dealing with anti-social behaviour and harassment. However, they may wish to engage with local authorities and the police to help prevent or deal with such behaviour.

Leaseholders experiencing anti-social behaviour and harassment may contact the government-funded Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE), which provides free initial legal advice and information.

Social landlords already have a range of powers and enforcement tools to tackle anti-social behaviour including powers to evict perpetrators. We expect landlords to use those powers promptly and proportionately, putting the needs of victims at the heart of their response.

Following implementation of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, private landlords will be able to take action to evict anti-social tenants quicker, with landlords being able to make a claim to the court immediately in all anti-social behaviour cases.

Tackling anti-social behaviour is a top priority for this government, and a key part of our Safer Streets Mission. We will crack down on those making neighbourhoods feel unsafe and unwelcoming by introducing the new Respect Order, which local authorities will be able to apply for and which will carry tough sanctions and penalties for persistent adult offenders. The police, local authorities and social landlords may already apply for a Civil Injunction under Section 1 of the Anti-social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act 2014 to prevent behaviour that is causing housing-related nuisance and annoyance.

General guidance on the use of domestic CCTV systems is published by the Information Commissioner here.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether he has made an assessment of the potential merits of clarifying whether regulation 25A of the Building Regulations that relates to Approved Document L includes extensions where the new wall or roof area adds 25% to the surface area of the building.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Regulation 25A of the Building Regulations 2010 concerns the use of high-efficiency alternative systems in new buildings and does not apply to extensions.

The energy efficiency standards that apply to extensions to existing dwellings are set out in Approved Document L: Conservation of fuel and power, Volume 1 (dwellings), Section 10.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment his Department has made of the potential energy-efficiency benefits derived from using natural stone in public and private construction.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Energy efficiency requirements for new dwellings and buildings are set through the Building Regulations, which specify overall performance standards rather than mandating particular materials. This allows designers and developers to select the most practical and cost-effective materials for each project, including the use of natural stone where appropriate.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the long-term housing strategy will include steps to grow the Integrated Retirement Community sector.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 87630 on 11 November 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether they remain committed to delivering a modern 21st century estate at the Lancaster West Estate following the Grenfell Tower fire; and what plans they have to provide funding for its refurbishment.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The government is committed to supporting the community affected by the Grenfell Tower tragedy for the long term, and to working with the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea (RBKC) so the vision of 21st century estate for the residents of the Lancaster West estate can be realised.

I understand how important and pressing this is. My officials are engaging with RBKC, who lead on the refurbishment of the estate, to fully understand the Council’s plans and timelines for delivery and explore potential funding options to determine whether government can further support the Council in refurbishing the estate.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of the Fair Funding 2.0 review on the overall finances of (1) London and (2) the rest of the country.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

On Thursday 20 November, we published (attached) the government response to the Fair Funding Review 2.0, which sets out the government’s plan to introduce a fairer and evidence-led funding system.

These updates will account for local circumstances, including different ability to raise income locally from council tax, and the variation in cost of delivering services, including between rural and urban areas. In doing so, we will target a greater proportion of grant funding towards the places that need it most, ensuring the best value for money for government and taxpayers.

The vast majority of councils with social care responsibilities will see their Core Spending Power increase in real terms over the multi-year Settlement. We will also support local authorities to manage their updated funding positions through a package of transitional arrangements, which we set out in detail in the response.

We will publish provisional local authority allocations at the upcoming provisional multi-year Settlement in December. Proposals and allocations will be subject to consultation and the usual Parliamentary process.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether the cost for delivering local government services is higher in rural or urban areas.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

On Thursday 20 November, we published (attached) the government response to the Fair Funding Review 2.0, which sets out the government’s plan to introduce a fairer and evidence-led funding system.

These updates will account for local circumstances, including different ability to raise income locally from council tax, and the variation in cost of delivering services, including between rural and urban areas. In doing so, we will target a greater proportion of grant funding towards the places that need it most, ensuring the best value for money for government and taxpayers.

The vast majority of councils with social care responsibilities will see their Core Spending Power increase in real terms over the multi-year Settlement. We will also support local authorities to manage their updated funding positions through a package of transitional arrangements, which we set out in detail in the response.

We will publish provisional local authority allocations at the upcoming provisional multi-year Settlement in December. Proposals and allocations will be subject to consultation and the usual Parliamentary process.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government, whether, once an outline application for a site not in a local plan is granted permission by a local planning authority, the provisions of paragraph 59 of the National Planning Policy Framework separately apply to any subsequent planning applications for the site, including any conditions made at outline consent.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Paragraph 59 of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is intended to apply to applications for planning permission, including applications for outline permission and reserved matters applications. The NPPF is a material consideration in planning decisions. Viability considerations may be relevant at the stage of approving reserved matters or conditions.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what resources his department is directing to support those wards within the governments Pride in Place program in a) Telford, b) West Midlands and c) England.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

On 25 September, the Government launched its overarching Pride in Place Strategy, committing up to £5 billion in funding and support to 339 communities.

The flagship Pride in Place Programme will provide up to £20 million in flexible funding and support to 244 places over the next decade. This will serve as the cornerstone of this Government’s support for communities, incorporating the existing 25 trailblazer areas announced at Spending Review and the 75 Phase 1 Plan for Neighbourhoods programme areas that were announced in March.

The neighbourhoods selected to receive funding and support from the Pride in Place Programme include Woodside in Telford and 28 places in the West Midlands. In addition, 7 local authorities across the West Midlands have been awarded funding through the Pride in Place Impact Fund, with each receiving up to £1.5m over two years. In total, the Government is investing up to £570.5 million across the West Midlands through the Pride in Place Programme and the Pride in Place Impact Fund.

Each area selected through the Pride in Place Programme will receive dedicated delivery support from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government to ensure the successful delivery of the programme. This support will be provided by the Communities Delivery Unit, which will work in partnership with Pride in Place Boards and local authorities, and will include access to place-specific data, guidance and capability support tailored to local needs.

The Communities Delivery Unit in the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government will also work with the Department for Work and Pensions and other government departments to identify relevant programmes, data and support that Pride in Place neighbourhoods can draw on as they develop their local plans.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what resources his department is providing to those wards within the government Pride in Place program in a) Telford, b) West Midlands and c) England.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

On 25 September, the Government launched its overarching Pride in Place Strategy, committing up to £5 billion in funding and support to 339 communities.

The flagship Pride in Place Programme will provide up to £20 million in flexible funding and support to 244 places over the next decade. This will serve as the cornerstone of this Government’s support for communities, incorporating the existing 25 trailblazer areas announced at Spending Review and the 75 Phase 1 Plan for Neighbourhoods programme areas that were announced in March.

The neighbourhoods selected to receive funding and support from the Pride in Place Programme include Woodside in Telford and 28 places in the West Midlands. In addition, 7 local authorities across the West Midlands have been awarded funding through the Pride in Place Impact Fund, with each receiving up to £1.5m over two years. In total, the Government is investing up to £570.5 million across the West Midlands through the Pride in Place Programme and the Pride in Place Impact Fund.

Each area selected through the Pride in Place Programme will receive dedicated delivery support from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government to ensure the successful delivery of the programme. This support will be provided by the Communities Delivery Unit, which will work in partnership with Pride in Place Boards and local authorities, and will include access to place-specific data, guidance and capability support tailored to local needs.

The Communities Delivery Unit in the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government will also work with the Department for Work and Pensions and other government departments to identify relevant programmes, data and support that Pride in Place neighbourhoods can draw on as they develop their local plans.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what discussions he has had with (a) the Chancellor of the Exchequer, (b) the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and (c) mayoral authorities on the Government's commitments to the hospitality sector.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

In April, the Government launched a joint government and industry taskforce to bring together representatives from the hospitality industry, police, local and central government to explore a more enabling approach to licensing with a greater focus on growth. This included officials from the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and HM Treasury who have continued to work closely together to explore the recommendations made in the Taskforce report, which was published in July. We are committed to reducing the costs for hospitality businesses in the UK by restoring licensing to its founding ethos of flexibility and growth, while maintaining a focus on the licensing objectives, particularly the prevention of crime and disorder. It is in this spirit that we have just published a first iteration of a National Licensing Policy Framework setting out a strategic vision for a modern licensing system.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the trends in the number of houses in multiple occupation on house prices in each local authority.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 75141 on 16 September 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to accelerate brownfield regeneration in the West Midlands; and what support is available to local authorities to bring derelict land back into use.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) makes clear that substantial weight should be given to the value of using suitable brownfield land within settlements, including the development of under-utilised land and buildings to meet the need for homes and other uses.

Through the revisions made to the NPPF on 12 December 2024 we broadened the definition of brownfield land, set a strengthened expectation that applications on brownfield land will be approved, and made clear that plans should promote an uplift in density in urban areas.

On 22 September 2024, the government published a ‘brownfield passport’ working paper inviting views on how we might further prioritise and fast-track building on previously used urban land. This included exploring the role of national policy in setting minimum density expectations for certain types of locations, to support intensification in the right places. Utilising the feedback provided, we intend to consult this year on a new suite of national policies for decision making that will give effect to these proposals.

On 18 June 2025, my Department announced £5 billion of new capital grant funding for infrastructure and land. This funding will be administered by the new National Housing Delivery Fund, through which councils will be able to secure funding for prospective projects, to contribute to the Government’s priority of delivering 1.5 million homes. Details of the funding made available to WMCA in 2025/26, via the Integrated Settlement, is available on gov.uk here. Details of the funding for 2026/27 onwards will be set out shortly.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of Question 21 October 2025 to Question 84026 on housing prices, what data he uses to inform targeted housing policy.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

My Department uses a wide range of data sources to inform the development of policy.

Public sources include the English Housing Survey; ONS datasets on house prices, rents and affordability; and Departmental statistics on housing supply, affordable housing, and homelessness and rough sleeping.

Local Authority Housing Statistics provide information on waiting lists, allocations, and lettings, while programme delivery data from Homes England and the Greater London Authority track outputs under the Affordable Homes Programme.

Planning and housing supply data, including starts, completions and permissions, are published quarterly.

Certain proprietary data cannot be published due to contractual restrictions and commercial sensitivities.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 20 October 2025 to Question 80174, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of that policy on (a) the Traveller community and (b) park home residents.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

My Department has made no such assessment.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment his Department has made of the potential impact of parks and green spaces on communities.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Parks and urban green spaces are important for community cohesion, biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and civic pride.

Responsibility for funding, managing and maintaining them lies mainly with local authorities. The government is committed to supporting Local Authorities in developing best practice to look after parks and green spaces.

The cornerstone of our support for communities is the government’s Pride in Place Programme, providing up to £5 billion funding and support over 10 years to 244 places. This flagship offer will help build strong, resilient and integrated communities in areas that experience the most entrenched social and economic challenges. This includes opportunities for communities to invest in their local parks and green spaces.

We are also committed to maintaining the quality of parks and green spaces through the MHCLG-owned Green Flag Award, which sets the national quality standard. The scheme has helped to transform thousands of parks and green spaces across the country.

The government's statutory guidance on local government reorganisation requires that unitary structures must prioritise the delivery of high quality and sustainable public services to citizens and that unitary structures should enable stronger community engagement and deliver genuine opportunity for neighbourhood empowerment, including parks and green spaces.

The government’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is also clear that planning policies should set out an overall strategy for the pattern, scale and design quality of places and make sufficient provision for the conservation and enhancement of the natural, built and historic environment, including green infrastructure.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to protect green spaces and parks as part of the local government review.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Parks and urban green spaces are important for community cohesion, biodiversity, climate change mitigation, and civic pride.

Responsibility for funding, managing and maintaining them lies mainly with local authorities. The government is committed to supporting Local Authorities in developing best practice to look after parks and green spaces.

The cornerstone of our support for communities is the government’s Pride in Place Programme, providing up to £5 billion funding and support over 10 years to 244 places. This flagship offer will help build strong, resilient and integrated communities in areas that experience the most entrenched social and economic challenges. This includes opportunities for communities to invest in their local parks and green spaces.

We are also committed to maintaining the quality of parks and green spaces through the MHCLG-owned Green Flag Award, which sets the national quality standard. The scheme has helped to transform thousands of parks and green spaces across the country.

The government's statutory guidance on local government reorganisation requires that unitary structures must prioritise the delivery of high quality and sustainable public services to citizens and that unitary structures should enable stronger community engagement and deliver genuine opportunity for neighbourhood empowerment, including parks and green spaces.

The government’s National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) is also clear that planning policies should set out an overall strategy for the pattern, scale and design quality of places and make sufficient provision for the conservation and enhancement of the natural, built and historic environment, including green infrastructure.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what extra resource his department is providing those wards within the governments pride in place program.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

On 25 September, the Government launched its overarching Pride in Place Strategy, committing up to £5 billion in funding and support to 339 communities.

The flagship Pride in Place Programme will provide up to £20 million in flexible funding and support to 244 places over the next decade. This will serve as the cornerstone of this Government’s support for communities, incorporating the existing 25 trailblazer areas announced at Spending Review and the 75 Phase 1 Plan for Neighbourhoods programme areas that were announced in March.

The neighbourhoods selected to receive funding and support from the Pride in Place Programme include Woodside in Telford and 28 places in the West Midlands. In addition, 7 local authorities across the West Midlands have been awarded funding through the Pride in Place Impact Fund, with each receiving up to £1.5m over two years. In total, the Government is investing up to £570.5 million across the West Midlands through the Pride in Place Programme and the Pride in Place Impact Fund.

Each area selected through the Pride in Place Programme will receive dedicated delivery support from the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government to ensure the successful delivery of the programme. This support will be provided by the Communities Delivery Unit, which will work in partnership with Pride in Place Boards and local authorities, and will include access to place-specific data, guidance and capability support tailored to local needs.

The Communities Delivery Unit in the Ministry for Housing, Communities and Local Government will also work with the Department for Work and Pensions and other government departments to identify relevant programmes, data and support that Pride in Place neighbourhoods can draw on as they develop their local plans.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the answer of 19 November 2025 to UIN 89916, whether elections for (a) Basildon Council, (b) Essex County Council and (c) other councils in Essex will be cancelled in 2026.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

As I made clear in my answer to Question UIN 87207 on 10 November 2025, our starting point is for all elections to go ahead unless there is strong justification otherwise. No local elections in Essex were cancelled in 2025. Elections to Essex County Council and to Thurrock Council were postponed for one year, to 2026. There are no plans to cancel any May 2026 elections except in Surrey where elections to the new councils of East Surrey and West Surrey will replace scheduled council elections, subject to Parliament.

Postponements have previously occurred in areas undergoing local government reorganisation only where councils requested or agreed to the postponement.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, which Minister would be responsible for the planning decision regarding the UK Holocaust Memorial and Learning Centre following the passage of the Holocaust Memorial Bill.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Arrangements for handling of the planning application for the UK Holocaust Memorial and Learning Centre are publicly available on gov.uk here.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, when he last met with the National Fire Chiefs Council to discuss wildfires; and if he will publish the minutes.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Ministers regularly meet with external stakeholders. As is precedent, details of Ministerial meetings with external organisations and individuals are published quarterly on GOV.UK.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what the evidential basis is for the inclusion of the Remoteness Adjustment within the Area Cost Adjustment of proposed funding formulas.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

On Thursday 20 November, we published the government response to the Fair Funding Review 2.0, which sets out the government’s plan to introduce a fairer and evidence-led funding system. In doing so, we will target a greater proportion of grant funding towards the most deprived places which need it most, ensuring the best value for money for government and taxpayers.

We will apply a remoteness adjustment to the Adult Social Care Formula, but not to formulas more broadly. The government recognised in the last consultation the case in principle for the impact of a remoteness adjustment on costs.

On balance, taking into consideration the available evidence and the views of stakeholders, the government has made a judgement that remoteness should be accounted for when assessing the cost of delivering adult social care services.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether her department has had recent discussions with FirstPort property management on the adequacy of their service.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

In response to widespread concerns raised in the debate on property service charges on 30 October, I met Martin King, Managing Director of FirstPort, on 17 November.

In that meeting, I pressed Mr King and his associates on a wide range of issues stemming from reports of poor service, and I left him in no doubt that in the government’s view, FirstPort’s performance is not good enough.

I have written to FirstPort to follow up on the issues raised and have deposited a copy of my letter in the House Library.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking with the Department of Health and Social Care to reduce the number of people discharged from NHS care into homelessness.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

In January 2024, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department of Health and Social Care published Discharging people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, guidance to help staff plan safe discharges and prevent homelessness after NHS care.

We will look closely at the issue of people being discharged from NHS care into homelessness in our cross-government Homelessness Strategy.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what measures has the government taken to help ensure that outdoor and indoor markets are sustainable.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Government believes markets have an important economic and social role at the heart of many communities. It is for local authorities, not central government, to make decisions on running, supporting and investing in local markets in their areas.

From 2026/27, we are introducing permanently lower business rates multipliers for retail, hospitality, and leisure properties with rateable values below £500,000, including markets. This permanent tax cut will ensure that eligible markets benefit from much-needed certainty and support.

Communities can also choose to invest in markets through the Government’s Pride in Place programme, which will provide £20 million over 10 years to 244 of the most deprived places in the UK.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the arrangements between local planning authorities and advisory Lead Local Flood Authorities on decision making in the planning system.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Lead Local Flood Authorities (LLFAs) are statutory consultees within the planning system and provide expert advice on surface water drainage for major planning applications, supporting local planning authorities in the decision-making process.

Local planning authorities must take into account comments raised by LLFAs when determining whether to grant planning permission.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, how many NSIP applications for data centres have been approved since January 2020 where the relevant local authority submitted a report raising concerns about the development.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 90592 on 21 November 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to ensure accountability for flood risk considerations in the planning process.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 81948 on 14 October 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the answer given to UIN 89924 on 19 November 2025, whether his Department will require a request from local councils to postpone elections in 2026 to be made before a decision can be taken by his Department to cancel further elections.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

As I made clear in my answer to Question UIN 87207 on 10 November 2025, our starting point is for all elections to go ahead unless there is strong justification otherwise. No local elections in Essex were cancelled in 2025. Elections to Essex County Council and to Thurrock Council were postponed for one year, to 2026. There are no plans to cancel any May 2026 elections except in Surrey where elections to the new councils of East Surrey and West Surrey will replace scheduled council elections, subject to Parliament.

Postponements have previously occurred in areas undergoing local government reorganisation only where councils requested or agreed to the postponement.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that the inclusion of housing costs in the Indices of Multiple Deprivation does not disadvantage more deprived areas with lower housing costs, particularly those with higher Council Tax rates.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

On Thursday 20 November, we published the government response to the Fair Funding Review 2.0, which sets out the government’s plan to introduce a fairer and evidence-led funding system. The government has used the most robust and up to date evidence available. On this basis, we are now using data from the recently published 2025 Indices of Multiple Deprivation in our assessment of need. The Indices are an Accredited Official Statistic produced by MHCLG.

The government has an important role as an equaliser for local government income, directing funding towards the places that are less able to meet their needs through locally raised income. The government will apply a resource adjustment which accounts for the differing Council Tax raising ability between local authorities.

We are proposing that the resource adjustment achieves the objective of full equalisation. This provides funding in a way that supports local authorities to offer a consistent level of service to their residents.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent discussions his Department has had with relevant stakeholders on the use of the Community Recovery Fund in the North East.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

MHCLG has maintained proactive engagement with stakeholders across the North East to ensure effective deployment of the Community Recovery Fund. In particular, the Department continues to work in close partnership with Hartlepool Borough Council, Middlesbrough Borough Council, and Sunderland City Council, the three areas awarded funding, to ensure alignment with local priorities and the delivery of community - led initiatives.

In the North East, the Community Recovery Fund has been strategically utilised at the local authority level to support the recovery and resilience of affected communities. This includes investment in the repair of physical infrastructure, targeted support for vulnerable groups and local businesses, and initiatives designed to foster social cohesion and rebuild trust within communities.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking with the Department of Health and Social Care to reduce the number of people discharged from NHS care into homelessness.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

In January 2024, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department of Health and Social Care published Discharging people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, guidance to help staff plan safe discharges and prevent homelessness after NHS care.

We will look closely at the issue of people being discharged from NHS care into homelessness in our cross-government Homelessness Strategy.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking with the Department of Health and Social Care to reduce the number of people discharged from NHS care into homelessness.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

In January 2024, the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government and the Department of Health and Social Care published Discharging people at risk of or experiencing homelessness, guidance to help staff plan safe discharges and prevent homelessness after NHS care.

We will look closely at the issue of people being discharged from NHS care into homelessness in our cross-government Homelessness Strategy.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what discussions he has had with councils in Wessex on a devolution settlement.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Regular meetings are held between officers from local authorities in Wessex and officials this Department on a range of topics important to the area, including devolution. Ministers have also exchanged views in correspondence with local leaders, in which we have been clear that decisions on future devolution will be subject to further ministerial decisions and local conversations.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, when devolution proposals for Wessex will be considered by his Department.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Regular meetings are held between officers from local authorities in Wessex and officials this Department on a range of topics important to the area, including devolution. Ministers have also exchanged views in correspondence with local leaders, in which we have been clear that decisions on future devolution will be subject to further ministerial decisions and local conversations.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to enable accurate data capture on the number of rough sleeping veterans.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

MHCLG collects a range of data and research on veteran homelessness and rough sleeping, including through the Homelessness Case Level Collection (H-CLIC), Rough Sleeping Data Framework, Rough sleeping single night autumn snapshot, and Rough Sleeping Questionnaire (RSQ). These statistics and research are available (attached) at Homelessness statistics - GOV.UK and (attached) Rough sleeping questionnaire: initial findings - GOV.UK.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the impact of changes to local planning authority agendas with regard to house building upon companies directly linked to the Industrial Strategy.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The Government is committed to building 1.5 million homes over this Parliament and delivering our modern Industrial Strategy.

Reforming the planning system is key to delivering on both of these commitments. The revised National Planning Policy Framework makes clear that planning policies should set out a clear economic vision and strategy which positively and proactively encourages sustainable economic growth, having regard to the national Industrial Strategy and any relevant Local Industrial Strategies. We will ensure that the planning system supports growth in our eight priority sectors, as reflected in the revised Framework. This prioritisation will be further embedded when we consult on a set of national policies for decision-making before the end of the year.

The Planning and Infrastructure Bill will also streamline the delivery of new homes and critical infrastructure – including infrastructure relevant to delivering the UK’s Modern Industrial Strategy.

The Government engages regularly with relevant stakeholders to understand and monitor the impacts of our proposed reforms.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government, with reference to their Research and Analysis Building Safety Remediation: monthly data release - June 2025, updated on 2 October, what are the reasons for the difference between (1) their new estimate as of January 2025 for the total number of mid-rise residential buildings with dwellings in England of 39,000–59,000, and (2) the previous estimate published in 2021 of 71,000–79,000, in the context of the margin of uncertainty increasing from 8,000 to 20,000.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

A description of the methodology for the revised estimate as of January 2025 can be found in the technical note that accompanies the monthly data release. It can be found here: Building Safety Technical Note June 2025

The revised estimates are based on the recently released Ordnance Survey National Geographic Database data which was not available when the original estimates were calculated. The key assumptions section of the Technical Note refers to the use of Ordnance Survey unique building identifiers in the higher building ranges and this was a key driver for the increase in the range of uncertainty.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what estimate they have made of any overspend by local authorities in England in this financial year; and how much has been allocated to cover that overspend in the final local government finance settlement for this year.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

I refer the noble Lord to the statement made by my hon Friend the Minister for Local Government and Homelessness on 20 November 2025 (attached) (HCWS1080), which sets out our plans for the 2026-27 to 2028-29 multi-year Local Government Finance Settlement, which includes allocating £3.4 billion of new grant funding over the multi-year period.

Local authorities are required to set a balanced budget. Any council that has concerns about its ability to set or maintain a balanced budget should approach the department in the first instance. The government does not collect data on overspends of budgets, but Revenue Account Budgets and Revenue Outturn are published as official national statistics.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what is their latest estimate for the total number of dwellings in mid-rise residential buildings in England.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

There are an estimated 858,000 – 1,298,000 dwellings in mid-rise (11-18m) residential buildings in England.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what latest estimate they have made of the number of dwellings in mid-rise residential buildings in England.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

There are an estimated 858,000 – 1,298,000 dwellings in mid-rise (11-18m) residential buildings in England.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of (a) trends in the level of demand for and (b) the adequacy of older people’s housing, including sheltered housing and care homes, for older LGBTIQA+ people.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 74681 on 12 September 2025.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent discussions he has had with the Chancellor of the Exchequer, the Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and combined Mayoral Authorities on taxes relating to the hospitality sector.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Government has announced powers for Mayors to introduce a visitor levy on short-term overnight accommodation in their region, to drive economic growth including through support for the local visitor economy.

We have published a consultation running until 18 February 2026, so that the public, businesses, and local government can shape the design of the power to introduce a levy that will be devolved to local leaders.

I am, of course, in regular communication with Ministers in other Departments on a range of issues, including options for deeper devolution.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether he plans to introduce a tourism tax.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Government has announced powers for Mayors to introduce a visitor levy on short-term overnight accommodation in their region, to drive economic growth including through support for the local visitor economy.

We have published a consultation running until 18 February 2026, so that the public, businesses, and local government can shape the design of the power to introduce a levy that will be devolved to local leaders.

The precise design and scope of the power for Mayors to introduce a visitor levy is still under development and the Government welcomes engagement from the hospitality sector in developing this power through the consultation process.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 21 October 2025 to Question 74185 on Deputy Prime Minister: Admiralty House, whether the Government Property Agency intends to claim back the over-paid second homes council tax premium.

Answered by Samantha Dixon - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

No overpayment has been made. Westminster City Council has determined that a premium is due regardless of the change in occupancy.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to help support community cohesion in Hexham constituency.

Answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

MHCLG's Community Cohesion Unit works to support and promote cohesion across England, through working closely with local authorities, voluntary and community sector and faith organisations, and other government departments.

The Government's new £2.87m Common Ground Resilience Fund is supporting community connection and cohesion by funding locally led interventions to build community resilience. As part of this, the Common Ground Award is investing capital funding into VCSE sector organisations that are bringing people together from different backgrounds, supporting the cost of constructing or renovating facilities, or the purchasing of equipment to deliver services.

Furthermore, MHCLG is co-ordinating cross-Government efforts to develop a longer-term, more strategic approach to social cohesion - working in partnership with local government, communities and local stakeholders to rebuild, renew and address the deep-seated issues.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the Government response to the Fair Funding Review consultation published on 20 November 2025, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of cumulative Dedicated Schools Grant deficits on local authorities’ ability to deliver services for children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government recognises that local authorities are continuing to face significant pressure from the impact of Dedicated Schools Grant deficits on their accounts.

Government will set out its ambitious plans for reform of SEND provision early in the new year to deliver a sustainable system which supports children and families effectively. The 2025 Spending Review provided investment for SEND reform. Future funding implications will be managed within the overall government DEL envelope, such that we would not expect local authorities to need to fund future special educational needs costs from general funds, once the Statutory Override ends at the end of 2027-28. We will set out further details on our plans to support local authorities with historic and accruing deficits through the upcoming Local Government Finance Settlement.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to support local authorities with Dedicated Schools Grant deficits.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government recognises that local authorities are continuing to face significant pressure from the impact of Dedicated Schools Grant deficits on their accounts.

Government will set out its ambitious plans for reform of SEND provision early in the new year to deliver a sustainable system which supports children and families effectively. The 2025 Spending Review provided investment for SEND reform. Future funding implications will be managed within the overall government DEL envelope, such that we would not expect local authorities to need to fund future special educational needs costs from general funds, once the Statutory Override ends at the end of 2027-28. We will set out further details on our plans to support local authorities with historic and accruing deficits through the upcoming Local Government Finance Settlement.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the 2025 Budget on local authority funding settlements in the North West of England for 2025–26.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

Final local authority funding allocations for financial year 2025-26 were confirmed at the Final local government finance settlement: England, 2025 to 2026. There are no plans to review the 2025-26 Local Government Finance Settlement in view of the 2025 Autumn Budget.

We will publish the provisional multi-year Settlement in December. Proposals and allocations will be subject to consultation and the usual Parliamentary process.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the Fair Funding Review methodology will take account of historic and projected cost pressures arising from SEND demand and associated Dedicated Schools Grant deficits when determining funding allocations to local authorities.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Fair Funding review will introduce a fairer, evidence-based funding system that reflects local circumstances and directs more support to the most deprived areas, ensuring the best value for money for government and taxpayers. New methodology will ensure funding is distributed to the places that need it most, using our most up-to-date assessment of need and demand across the system. These updates will account for local circumstances, including for different ability to raise income locally from council tax, and the variation in the cost delivering services.

There is no direct link between Dedicated Schools Grants deficits and allocations following the Fair Funding Review. However, Government recognises that local authorities are continuing to face significant pressure from the impact of deficits on their accounts, and will address this outside of the Fair Funding Review

Ambitious plans for reform of special educational needs provision will be set out early in the new year to deliver a sustainable system which supports children and families effectively. Future funding implications will be managed within the overall government DEL envelope, such that we would not expect local authorities to need to fund future special educational needs costs from general funds, once the Statutory Override ends at the end of 2027-28. We will set out further details on our plans to support local authorities with historic and accruing deficits through the upcoming Local Government Finance Settlement.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government, further to the Written Answer by the Minister for Housing on 5 February 2024 (HC8158), what proportion of the budget for social and affordable housing is spent on (1) Ukrainian and Afghan refugee and guests schemes, (2) asylum seekers, (3) migrant workers on the shortage occupation list, (4) dependents of such migrant workers, (5) workers on the health and social care visa scheme and (6) non-UK citizens.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

There is not a single budget for social and affordable housing. Most of the income for social housing providers come from rent paid by tenants, some of whom have help from the welfare system to pay it. New social and affordable homes are typically funded by a mix of subsidy from government grant programmes, or through Section 106 agreements in planning permissions, combined with borrowing by landlords against future rental income.

Completed new social homes are allocated to new tenants by local authorities, unless agreed otherwise. Local authorities are responsible for their own allocation scheme for social housing within the framework of legislation.

Eligibility for social housing is tightly controlled. If a person’s visa means that they cannot access state benefits or local authority housing assistance, they are not eligible for an allocation of social housing. Asylum seekers and migrants in the UK on work or student visas are not eligible for social housing.

Data is available for all social housing lettings in England. This data does not include details of official refugee or immigration status, or route into the country. However, it does include details of nationality, based on the self-reported nationality of the lead tenant. The data shows that between April 2024 and March 2025:

• There were 29,700 new social lettings in England to households led by non-UK nationals (11.3% of all new social lettings). Of these;
• There were 1,100 new social lettings in England to households led by Ukrainian nationals (0.5% of all new social lettings).
• There were 1,300 new social lettings in England to households led by Afghan nationals (0.6% of all new social lettings).

These figures are publicly available (attached) in Social housing lettings in England, April 2024 to March 2025 - GOV.UK

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to address the financial pressures on local councils arising from internal drainage board levies in areas where they have increased in recent years.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

The government supports and values the vital work internal drainage boards (IDBs) undertake in managing water levels and reducing flood risk, benefitting communities, businesses and farmers.

In recognition of IDB cost increases and the impact on local authority special levies, the government announced as part of the Local Government Finance Settlement Policy Statement, that it will provide £5 million in funding for the local authorities most impacted by IDB levies in 2026/27. This follows the £5 million grant awarded in 2025/26. As in previous years, allocations for the 2026/27 IDB levy support grant will be announced in due course once IDB levy data has been received towards the end of the financial year.

We recognise the need to ensure IDBs are set up for the longer term. Defra and MHCLG have commissioned a research project into IDB funding and costs, which launched in early September and will close in summer 2026.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the infrastructure and energy requirements of new housing developments, and how those requirements align with net zero and industrial growth strategies.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Reforming the planning system is key to building 1.5 million homes and delivering our modern industrial Strategy. The revised National Planning Policy Framework makes clear that planning policies should positively and proactively encourage sustainable economic growth whilst making sufficient provision for infrastructure and energy. These policies should also have regard to the national Industrial Strategy and any relevant Local Industrial Strategies.

The Government remains committed to meeting its target of net zero emissions by 2050 and recognises the importance of energy efficient buildings in meeting it. We are consulting on a set of national policies for decision-making before the end of the year. We intend to update the energy efficiency standards in the Building Regulations in the next few months.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government what processes are in place to assess the impact of new housing developments on existing local businesses and industrial areas, and how those assessments are considered when granting building permits.

Answered by Baroness Taylor of Stevenage - Baroness in Waiting (HM Household) (Whip)

Planning law requires decision-makers to consider the potential land-use impacts that proposals have on neighbouring development when determining planning applications.

Our National Planning Policy Framework sets out that planning policies and decisions should ensure that new development can be integrated effectively with existing businesses. Where the operation of an existing business could have a significant adverse effect on new development in its vicinity, the applicant (or ‘agent of change’) should be required to provide suitable mitigation before the development has been completed.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether he has made an assessment of the potential impact of unresolved Dedicated Schools Grant deficits on the ability of local authorities such as Bolton Council to benefit from a redistribution of resources arising from the Fair Funding Review.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Fair Funding review will introduce a fairer, evidence-based funding system that reflects local circumstances and directs more support to the most deprived areas, ensuring the best value for money for government and taxpayers. New methodology will ensure funding is distributed to the places that need it most, using our most up-to-date assessment of need and demand across the system. These updates will account for local circumstances, including for different ability to raise income locally from council tax, and the variation in the cost delivering services.

There is no direct link between Dedicated Schools Grants deficits and allocations following the Fair Funding Review. However, Government recognises that local authorities are continuing to face significant pressure from the impact of deficits on their accounts, and will address this outside of the Fair Funding Review

Ambitious plans for reform of special educational needs provision will be set out early in the new year to deliver a sustainable system which supports children and families effectively. Future funding implications will be managed within the overall government DEL envelope, such that we would not expect local authorities to need to fund future special educational needs costs from general funds, once the Statutory Override ends at the end of 2027-28. We will set out further details on our plans to support local authorities with historic and accruing deficits through the upcoming Local Government Finance Settlement.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential implications of Dedicated Schools Grant deficits, including that of Bolton Council, for the implementation of the Fair Funding Review’s objective of directing resources to areas with the greatest levels of need.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Fair Funding review will introduce a fairer, evidence-based funding system that reflects local circumstances and directs more support to the most deprived areas, ensuring the best value for money for government and taxpayers. New methodology will ensure funding is distributed to the places that need it most, using our most up-to-date assessment of need and demand across the system. These updates will account for local circumstances, including for different ability to raise income locally from council tax, and the variation in the cost delivering services.

There is no direct link between Dedicated Schools Grants deficits and allocations following the Fair Funding Review. However, Government recognises that local authorities are continuing to face significant pressure from the impact of deficits on their accounts, and will address this outside of the Fair Funding Review

Ambitious plans for reform of special educational needs provision will be set out early in the new year to deliver a sustainable system which supports children and families effectively. Future funding implications will be managed within the overall government DEL envelope, such that we would not expect local authorities to need to fund future special educational needs costs from general funds, once the Statutory Override ends at the end of 2027-28. We will set out further details on our plans to support local authorities with historic and accruing deficits through the upcoming Local Government Finance Settlement.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if his Department will make an estimate of the number of households currently paying higher council tax due to (a) incorrect and (b) inconsistent banding.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has a duty to maintain an accurate list of all council tax bands. If the VOA becomes aware of an inaccuracy, it will update the list by adjusting the council tax band for the relevant properties.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment his Department has made of the additional costs of delivering local government services in rural areas, and how these costs will be reflected in the Fair Funding Review.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government published the Local government finance policy statement 2026-27 to 2028-29 - GOV.UK and response to the Fair Funding Review 2.0 on Thursday 20 November, which set out the government's plans to introduce a fairer and evidence-led funding system. These updates will account for local circumstances, including for different ability to raise income locally from council tax, and the variation in cost of delivering services, including between rural and urban areas.

As part of this, we will continue to apply Area Cost Adjustments to account for the different costs faced in delivering services, including in rural and urban areas. The Area Cost Adjustment considers differences in labour and rental costs, as well as the cost impact of longer journey times. We will also apply a remoteness adjustment to the Adult Social Care Formula. Our cost adjustment methodology has been subject to a technical peer review by the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

We will publish provisional local authority allocations at the upcoming provisional multi-year Settlement in December, which will be subject to consultation and the usual Parliamentary process.

Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the Department plans to review the Area Cost Adjustment.

Answered by Alison McGovern - Minister of State (Housing, Communities and Local Government)

The government published the Local government finance policy statement 2026-27 to 2028-29 - GOV.UK and response to the Fair Funding Review 2.0 on Thursday 20 November, which set out the government's plans to introduce a fairer and evidence-led funding system. These updates will account for local circumstances, including for different ability to raise income locally from council tax, and the variation in cost of delivering services, including between rural and urban areas.

As part of this, we will continue to apply Area Cost Adjustments to account for the different costs faced in delivering services, including in rural and urban areas. The Area Cost Adjustment considers differences in labour and rental costs, as well as the cost impact of longer journey times. We will also apply a remoteness adjustment to the Adult Social Care Formula. Our cost adjustment methodology has been subject to a technical peer review by the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

We will publish provisional local authority allocations at the upcoming provisional multi-year Settlement in December, which will be subject to consultation and the usual Parliamentary process.

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Found: To support this, Defra is working with MHCLG to review the Building Regulations 2010 and associated

Found: MOSL is working to support the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) on a targeted

Found: between GBR, Department for Transport (DfT), Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG

Found: Correspondence to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government relating to its approach

Found: between GBR, Department for Transport (DfT), Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG

Found: So there was work done between the Department for Education, MHCLG and the Treasury to introduce the

Found: on what is required, but has said that this work “does not indicate any specific future action by MHCLG

Found: Action needed from Government An inquiry could examine:  How departments (DEFRA, DHSC, MHCLG, DfT, Treasury

Found: resilience, carbon sequestration, and nature recovery but they risk being wiped out as DEFRA, DESNZ & MHCLG

Found: of policies, such as:  National Planning Policy Framework protections for irreplaceable habitats – MHCLG

Found: Community Planning Alliance 1 https://committees.parliament.uk/work/9336/the-environment-in-focus/ 2 MHCLG

Found: MHCLG, the Treasury, DCMS, the Home Office and us had conversations with the chief constable to say,

Found: The Government also keeps up to date on its website an online register of CPO decisions issued by MHCLG

Found: The Home Office is working closely with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to

Found: Team Barrow, Team Barrow, Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, and Westmorland and

Found: support that we are giving to high streets in terms of regeneration and working with colleagues at MHCLG

Found: We are arguing that MHCLG need s to amend the guidance for local authorities on allocation s policy.

Found: Some of the work we are doing with our colleagues in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what discussions she has had with Ministerial colleagues in MHCLG responsible for fire services regarding what further steps can be taken to prevent farm fires.

Answered by Angela Eagle - Minister of State (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

Defra Ministers and officials have regular discussions with their counterparts in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government on a range of issues.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to the answer of 24 November 2025 to Question 91533 on Brownfield Sites: Biodiversity, whether she plans to consult further on the definition of (a) small and (b) medium sites before final decisions on the future of Biodiversity Net Gain.

Answered by Mary Creagh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government response to the ‘Improving biodiversity net gain for minor, medium and brownfield development’ consultation and the impact assessment will be published in due course.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government published in May a working paper on site thresholds for planning purposes, including a potential new category of medium development. They are assessing the response to this working paper.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to the answer of 24 November 2025 to Question 91533 on Brownfield Sites: Biodiversity, if she will ensure adequate Parliamentary scrutiny of that impact assessment before final decisions on the future of Biodiversity Net Gain.

Answered by Mary Creagh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government response to the ‘Improving biodiversity net gain for minor, medium and brownfield development’ consultation and the impact assessment will be published in due course.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government published in May a working paper on site thresholds for planning purposes, including a potential new category of medium development. They are assessing the response to this working paper.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to the answer of 24 November 2025 to Question 91533 on Brownfield Sites: Biodiversity, whether the full impact assessment will be published prior to her response to the consultation.

Answered by Mary Creagh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government response to the ‘Improving biodiversity net gain for minor, medium and brownfield development’ consultation and the impact assessment will be published in due course.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government published in May a working paper on site thresholds for planning purposes, including a potential new category of medium development. They are assessing the response to this working paper.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, pursuant to the answer of 24 November 2025 to Question 91533 on Brownfield Sites: Biodiversity, when the full impact assessment will be published.

Answered by Mary Creagh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government response to the ‘Improving biodiversity net gain for minor, medium and brownfield development’ consultation and the impact assessment will be published in due course.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government published in May a working paper on site thresholds for planning purposes, including a potential new category of medium development. They are assessing the response to this working paper.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, whether her Department plans to make sites below 0.5 hectares exempt from Biodiversity Net Gain.

Answered by Mary Creagh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government response to the ‘Improving biodiversity net gain for minor, medium and brownfield development’ consultation and the impact assessment will be published in due course.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government published in May a working paper on site thresholds for planning purposes, including a potential new category of medium development. They are assessing the response to this working paper.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how much funding has been allocated to the Minister for the Union every year since the office was established.

Answered by Chris Ward - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The title of Minister for the Union has been held by the Prime Minister since its creation in 2019. Departmental responsibility for the delivery of union policy has been split between the Cabinet Office and MHCLG during that period. The Scotland Office, Wales Office, and Northern Ireland Office also have responsibility for ensuring the government delivers for every nation in the UK. Budgets are allocated to departments, rather than specific ministerial roles.

Question to the Home Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department, pursuant to the Answer of 17 November 2025 to Question 91633 on Police and Crime Commissioners: Cornwall and Devon, what assessment her Department has made of the (a) effectiveness and (b) accountability of Policing and Crime Boards.

Answered by Sarah Jones - Minister of State (Home Office)

Policing and Crime Boards will have the necessary powers and levers to maintain strong local oversight of policing. They will exercise the same core governance functions and duties as Police and Crime Commissioners (PCCs) and will be supported by an appointed Policing and Crime Lead who will provide day-to-day oversight of the force. We have been clear that is not a return to the invisible, committee-based governance under previous police authorities.

Policing and Crime Boards will bring together the elected council leaders in the force area, maintaining democratic accountability for policing as well as the benefit of being better able to join up governance of policing with other local services. We are working closely with the Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government and the Local Government Association on the design and implementation of these arrangements, including ensuring that there will be robust scrutiny arrangements for Policing and Crime Boards.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, if she will make an assessment of the potential impact of farmers and gamekeepers on fighting wildfires.

Answered by Mary Creagh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) are the lead Department for wildfire. I refer you to their response of 21 November 2025 to PQ UIN 90164.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask the Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, what steps she is taking to support Natural England in their responsibilities in wildfire prevention, including in agreeing land management plans.

Answered by Mary Creagh - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) is the lead Government department for wildfire. Defra works closely with MHCLG and supports Natural England (NE) to deliver its responsibilities.

This includes the recently published Environmental Improvement Plan commitment that by 2030 NE will conduct research on increasing the natural resilience of habitats to wildfires, such as through re-wetting or restoring hydrological function, including case studies of success. An initial scoping review will be reported on in the annual progress report in 2027. This will develop our understanding of actions we can take to naturally reduce the risk of wildfires.

Alongside this, Defra supports NE in:

• Working with partners to improve systems to alert land managers about fire risk and management techniques to improve resilience. This includes through support and membership of the UK Fire Danger Rating System Steering Group.
• Being represented on a number of local and regional wildfire groups in England which help address wildfire issues.
• Encouraging landowners/managers to maintain good relations with their local Fire and Rescue Service, including through joint visits to identify risks and familiarise all involved with sites that may be susceptible to wildfire.
• Advising that landowners complete a wildfire checklist (which can be funded through Countryside Stewardship). Where high vulnerability is identified it is the landowners’ responsibility to consider fire risk assessments and fire response plans.

Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask the Chancellor of the Exchequer, pursuant to the Answer of 17 January 2025, to Question 23941, on Tourism: Taxation, and further to the MHCLG press release, "Levy on overnight trips will help mayors invest in local growth", of 25 November 2025, what was the rationale for the change in the Chancellor’s policy further to that set out in January.

Answered by Dan Tomlinson - Exchequer Secretary (HM Treasury)

The Government keeps all tax policy under review. The Government’s number one mission is to kickstart economic growth, and devolving fiscal powers is critical to achieving this.

Introducing powers to raise a visitor levy provides Mayors with a new lever to both raise and reinvest revenue locally. Mayors in Strategic Authorities have made clear that introducing a new, discretionary visitor levy power is one of their shared priorities for further devolution.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what comparative data his Department holds on rates of (a) child poverty and (b) homelessness in (i) Surrey Heath constituency, (ii) Surrey, (iii) the South East and (iv) England.

Answered by Diana Johnson - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

Statistics on the number of children living in absolute and relative poverty in the UK are published annually in the “Households Below Average Income” publication, the latest available being: Households below average income: for financial years ending 1995 to 2024 - GOV.UK.

Statistics on the number of children living in absolute and relative poverty on a before housing costs basis at local level are published annually in the “Children in low income families: local area statistics” publication, the latest available being: Children in low income families: local area statistics 2014 to 2024 - GOV.UK.

Homelessness statistics are published by MHCLG: Statutory homelessness in England: financial year 2024-25 - GOV.UK

Ahead of Child Poverty Strategy publication, we have already taken substantive action across major drivers of child poverty. The removal of the two child limit will lift 450,000 children out of poverty, rising to around 550,000 alongside other measures announced this year, such as the expansion of free school meals. These interventions will lead to the largest expected reduction in child poverty over a Parliament since comparable records began.

Question to the Wales Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales, what discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on the potential impact of not uprating Local Housing Allowance on homelessness in Wales.

Answered by Jo Stevens - Secretary of State for Wales

I have discussions with the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions on a regular basis and on a range of issues. My officials work closely with DWP, MHCLG and other departments, including regarding Local Housing Allowance (LHA).

The Government is taking action to support low-income households, including removing the two-child limit to reduce child poverty, benefitting 69,000 children in Wales. In addition, we are increasing the National Living Wage and the National Minimum Wage building on April 2025 increases that already helped up to 160,000 workers in Wales, cutting household energy bills by £150 per year and uprating the Universal Credit Standard Allowance by over 6%. This is the first ever sustained real terms increase in the Standard Allowance, directly benefitting 320,000 households in Wales.

Discretionary Housing Payments are available from local authorities for those who face a shortfall in meeting their housing costs and need further support.

Question to the Department for Education:

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, what action is being taken to support SEND transport costs in South Shropshire constituency.

Answered by Georgia Gould - Minister of State (Education)

Central government funding for home-to-school travel is provided through the Local Government Finance Settlement which is administered by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The Settlement for the 2025/26 financial year makes available over £69 billion for local government, a 6.8% cash terms increase in Core Spending Power on 2024/25.

To put local government on the road to financial sustainability, the government recently consulted on funding reforms, including a bespoke relative needs formula for home-to-school transport. The consultation response was published here on 20 November:

https://www.gov.uk/government/consultations/the-fair-funding-review-20.

Challenges in the special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) system are creating pressure on home-to-school travel. We have committed to reform the SEND system to enable more children to thrive in local mainstream settings. These reforms will be set out in a Schools White Paper early in the new year.

Question to the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs, with reference to Question 347 to 349 of Foreign Affairs Committee, Oral evidence: Work of the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office, HC 385, 3 November 2025, if he will place (a) a readout and (b) the minutes of the discussions between the Permanent Under-Secretary and the Chinese Government on the proposed Chinese Embassy in London in the Library.

Answered by Seema Malhotra - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office)

The planning application has been called in by the Secretary of State for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) who will make this decision independently in a quasi-judicial capacity. Consistent with long-standing policy, the Government does not routinely publish details of meetings between officials and external organisations.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, what progress he has made on the launch of Community Help Partnerships.

Answered by Josh Simons - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Government announced Community Help Partnerships (CHPs) at the Spending Review. Since then, we have been working closely with a wide range of stakeholders—including people with lived experience, the voluntary sector, and central and local government—to design a programme of preventative support for adults experiencing disadvantage.

This will build on learning from the Changing Futures’ crisis-focused programme. CHPs will go further in addressing systemic barriers to allow local services to provide better integrated, earlier preventative support. The Cabinet Office is working closely with MHCLG to coordinate the two programmes.

We are continuing to explore how to strengthen alignment with wider place-based public sector reform. Further details will be announced in due course.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how the new Community Help Partnerships will differ from the Changing Futures Programme.

Answered by Josh Simons - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Government announced Community Help Partnerships (CHPs) at the Spending Review. Since then, we have been working closely with a wide range of stakeholders—including people with lived experience, the voluntary sector, and central and local government—to design a programme of preventative support for adults experiencing disadvantage.

This will build on learning from the Changing Futures’ crisis-focused programme. CHPs will go further in addressing systemic barriers to allow local services to provide better integrated, earlier preventative support. The Cabinet Office is working closely with MHCLG to coordinate the two programmes.

We are continuing to explore how to strengthen alignment with wider place-based public sector reform. Further details will be announced in due course.

Question to the Cabinet Office:

To ask the Minister for the Cabinet Office, how allocations will be decided for new Community Help Partnerships.

Answered by Josh Simons - Parliamentary Secretary (Cabinet Office)

The Government announced Community Help Partnerships (CHPs) at the Spending Review. Since then, we have been working closely with a wide range of stakeholders—including people with lived experience, the voluntary sector, and central and local government—to design a programme of preventative support for adults experiencing disadvantage.

This will build on learning from the Changing Futures’ crisis-focused programme. CHPs will go further in addressing systemic barriers to allow local services to provide better integrated, earlier preventative support. The Cabinet Office is working closely with MHCLG to coordinate the two programmes.

We are continuing to explore how to strengthen alignment with wider place-based public sector reform. Further details will be announced in due course.

Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of the amount of the Housing Benefit subsidy for temporary accommodation cases being less than Local Housing Allowance rates on the quality of temporary accommodation.

Answered by Stephen Timms - Minister of State (Department for Work and Pensions)

DWP pays local authorities a Housing Benefit subsidy for Temporary Accommodation cases. There are restrictions on the amount paid, including a subsidy cap which is the lowest of £500 per week in certain areas of London or £375 elsewhere, 90% of 2011 LHA rates, or the claimant’s Housing Benefit entitlement. These arrangements are designed to incentivise local authorities to ensure Temporary Accommodation is good quality and value for money.

We recognise the financial pressures that local authorities are experiencing. This Government has invested £1bn in homelessness and rough sleeping services this year (2025/26), a £316m increase on the previous year.

We want to encourage better investment into Temporary Accommodation stock up-front to minimise costs to local authorities and £950m was announced in the latest round of the Local Authority Housing Fund. This coupled with measures to strengthen local authorities’ financial position such as a new £39 billion Affordable Homes Programme and a 10-year rental settlement at Consumer Price Index + 1, will support local authorities in England to increase the supply of good quality Temporary Accommodation and drive down the use of costly bed and breakfasts and hotels.

We will continue to work with MHCLG as part of the Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Inter Ministerial Group.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask His Majesty's Government what plans they have to ensure that internal drainage boards are fully funded for their role in preventing flooding and water management.

Answered by Baroness Hayman of Ullock - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government supports and values the vital work internal drainage boards (IDBs) undertake in managing water levels and reducing flood risk, benefitting communities, businesses and farmers.

IDBs are mainly locally funded by the beneficiaries of their work, farmers paying drainage rates and local authorities paying special levies.

The Government’s £91m IDB Fund is supporting greater flood resilience for farmers and rural communities. IDBs are delivering projects that are already benefiting over 400,000 hectares of farmland and over 200,000 properties.

However, we recognise the need to ensure IDBs are set up in the longer term. In response to rising financial pressures on IDBs, and the farmers and local authorities who fund their work, Defra and MHCLG have commissioned a research project into IDB funding and costs. This is focussed on financial efficiency, value for money, and the broader benefits which IDBs deliver for local communities.

Question to the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs:

To ask His Majesty's Government what steps they are taking to develop a sustainable funding solution for internal drainage board levies; and whether the funding support provided to councils will be further increased in the financial settlement.

Answered by Baroness Hayman of Ullock - Parliamentary Under-Secretary (Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs)

The Government supports and values the vital work internal drainage boards (IDBs) undertake in managing water levels and reducing flood risk, benefitting communities, businesses and farmers.

The Government’s £91m IDB Fund is supporting greater flood resilience for farmers and rural communities. IDBs are delivering projects that are already benefiting over 400,000 hectares of farmland and over 200,000 properties.

In recognition of IDB cost increases and the impact on local authority special levies, the government announced on 20 November 2025 as part of the 2026/27 Local Government Finance Settlement Policy Statement, that it will provide £5 million in funding for the local authorities most impacted by IDB levies. This follows the £5 million grant awarded in 2025/26. Allocations for the 2026/27 IDB levy support grant will be announced in due course.

However, we recognise the need to ensure IDBs are set up for the longer term. In response to rising financial pressures on IDBs, and the farmers and local authorities who fund their work, Defra and MHCLG have commissioned a research project into IDB funding and costs. This is focussed on financial efficiency, value for money, and the broader benefits which IDBs deliver for local communities. It will include examination of whether any changes are needed to their funding model. The research project was launched in early September and will close in summer 2026.

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