Local Government and Public Involvement (England) Bill - Commencement

Explains the new amendments to Lords reasons 123J and 155J, highlighting the Government's constructive approach in negotiations. Acknowledges concerns about centralising powers but notes progress has been made on issues like brownfield development prioritisation and local authority governance.

Supports the government’s amendments, noting they address centralising power concerns. Praises protection of green spaces and prioritisation of brownfield land for development. Agrees to pause the requirement for local authority governance structure reflecting local circumstances.

Agrees with protecting greenfield sites, citing concerns about candidates wanting to build over precious green-belt land.

Argues for local flexibility in governance and opposes the imposition of mayors without meaningful local consent. Supports prioritisation of brownfield development but calls for more protection against greenfield development defaulting.

The MP thanks hon. Members for their engagement and constructive debate, expressing that she fundamentally believes the Bill marks a significant step in transferring power outside of Whitehall to empower local communities and local authorities. She responds to points raised by other MPs regarding governance and uses examples like Sheffield to demonstrate the need for strong local governance arrangements to support enduring decision-making capabilities within communities.

The MP raises a point of order regarding a written question he tabled about Jonathan Powell’s scrutiny vetting before or after his appointment as the Prime Minister's special envoy on the Chagos negotiations. He seeks an official answer from the Foreign Office prior to Parliament proroguing.

The MP acknowledges Mike Wood's diligence in seeking answers for his constituents and supports him, emphasising the importance of Back-Bench MPs receiving timely responses from the Treasury Bench.