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 prevent commercial landlords from leaving premises empty for long periods; and if he will make an assessment of the potential merits of using (a) business rates reform, (b) penalties for vacancy, (c) tenant incentives and (d) other measures to bring unused units back into active use.

This Government is taking action to tackle long-term commercial vacancy and to support vibrant high streets. To address business rates avoidance and evasion we recognise the importance of a system where everyone pays their fair share and are committed to taking necessary action.

Our forthcoming High Streets Strategy will explore a range of measures to support the high street and reduce the number of vacant premises. We have introduced High Street Rental Auctions which empower councils to require the letting of persistently vacant units where landlords fail to engage.