Question to the HM Treasury:

To ask Mr Chancellor of the Exchequer, what planning powers he plans to provide to the National Infrastructure Commission; and what the relationship is between the remit of that Commission and the powers exercised by the (a) devolved administrations and (b) Secretaries of State for (i) Transport, (ii) Energy and Climate Change and (iii) Communities and Local Government.

HM Treasury will soon consult on what planning powers will be given to the National Infrastructure Commission, and on its remit.

It will initially focus on areas of UK government competence. Where spending is devolved, it will be a matter for the devolved governments whether they wish to work with the Commission and how to respond to any recommendations it makes.

The Commission will provide objective analysis and an independent view on infrastructure needs, but Government will retain the final say on policy and which projects receive government support in being delivered.