Oral Answers to Questions

Munira Wilson Excerpts

Monday 12th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[The Minister for Housing and Planning (Matthew Pennycook)]

While I appreciate my hon. Friend’s concern, we have strengthened policies in the draft national planning policy framework, which is currently out for consultation, that will ensure that major residential schemes are built out in reasonable time. I am more than happy to have a conversation with her about how that may impact developments in her constituency.

[Munira Wilson (Twickenham) (LD)]

T2. The Secretary of State will be aware that the so-called fair funding settlement will leave my council of Richmond upon Thames some £29 million worse off over the next three years. It will leave our most vulnerable residents, including children with complex needs and elderly people, facing cuts in critical services, even if the council raises council tax by 5%. Will he extend the transitional period?

[The Minister for Local Government and Homelessness (Alison McGovern)]

I have heard what the hon. Member has said, and will take it as a contribution to the consultation that we are having. She mentions the needs of children; she will have heard me say to colleagues that we have to change the way that we work on this issue. I will happily work with her to ensure that we cut the costs and get better outcomes for our kids.