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 conduct an inquiry into the future of housing in former coalfield communities to develop a bespoke housing policy for constituencies experiencing (a) poor housing quality and (b) low housing demand.

Government wants to help people who experience problems with their housing and help them feel empowered to challenge when things go wrong. Last week’s announcement of a new Housing Complaints Resolution Service will improve access to redress for residents living in substandard accommodation – regardless of tenure.

It is the responsibility of local authorities through the planning system, with regard to the National Planning Policy Framework, to determine the appropriate level and types of housing in their area.

Our estate regeneration national strategy emphasises the crucial leadership role of local authorities and the importance of working in partnership with local residents to drive change.

I look forward to meeting with the honourable member to discuss housing in former coalfield communities.