Thursday 15th January 2026

(1 day, 8 hours ago)

Lords Chamber
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Baroness Hoey Portrait Baroness Hoey (Non-Afl)
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My Lords, most Londoners know just how difficult it is to get a tiny little extension approved for the back of their house. Why on earth does a foreign embassy need such a huge building in such an important area? Even the United States of America does not have such a huge embassy. Aside from security issues, does she not agree that this is a ridiculous application?

Baroness Taylor of Stevenage Portrait Baroness Taylor of Stevenage (Lab)
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The noble Baroness has a view on that, but the Ministers taking the decision have to determine the application as it stands. The documents were submitted correctly to Tower Hamlets Council and the decision is now being considered in MHCLG. It is a decision for planning Ministers. It is open for any party to make representations about the case, the matter the noble Baroness raises or anything else. All relevant planning considerations will be taken into account when making the decision.