Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment her Department has made of the adequacy of the consistency of Local Planning Authorities in applying the (a) NPPF and (b) Planning Practice Guidance.

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government does not directly assess the consistency of Local Planning Authorities in applying the National Planning Policy Framework and Planning Practice Guidance.

However, independent Planning Inspectors examine local development plans to ensure they are legally compliant and sound, including in respect of whether they are consistent with national policy.

Similarly, when determining appeals, Planning Inspectors consider these principles, ensuring that decisions reflect national policy and guidance.