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UK Shared Prosperity Fund
12 September 2024
Lead MP
Lauren Edwards
Debate Type
Adjournment Debate
Tags
Economy
Other Contributors: 1
At a Glance
Lauren Edwards raised concerns about uk shared prosperity fund in the House of Commons. A government minister responded. Other MPs also contributed.
How the Debate Unfolded
MPs spoke in turn to share their views and ask questions. Here's what each person said:
Lead Contributor
Opened the debate
The MP sought to address the forthcoming Budget's impact on the UK shared prosperity fund (UKSPF). She highlighted the positive effects of the UKSPF in boosting economic growth, local communities, and regeneration efforts. Drawing from her experience as a former Medway council cabinet member, she detailed how the fund was used to support local community groups, businesses, and charities. Specific examples were given of high street events like the Chatham Chinese New Year Festival which saw significant footfall increases due to UKSPF funding. She also mentioned challenges such as short timescales for planning and single-year funding constraints, proposing a six to eight-year funding cycle as an improvement. The lead MP called for additional flexible revenue funding in next year's Budget to avoid a cliff edge effect at the end of March 2025.
Nottingham North and Kimberley
Lab Co-op
Alex Norris
The Minister supported the case for extending UKSPF funding and acknowledged its effectiveness in his constituency.
Government Response
The Under-Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government thanked the MP for raising the debate. He acknowledged the importance of the UKSPF in supporting growth and regeneration across the United Kingdom. The Minister agreed on the challenges posed by short funding cycles and proposed a lighter touch approach to monitoring future funds, emphasising local decision-making rather than central restrictions. He stated that while the specific funding decisions are with the Chancellor, the Government is committed to resetting its relationship with local authorities for better outcomes. The Minister expressed interest in working closely with constituents to ensure smooth transitions towards new funding models and promised a more flexible approach to monitoring future initiatives.
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Assessment & feedback
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About House of Commons Debates
House of Commons debates take place in the main chamber of the House of Commons. These debates cover a wide range of topics including government policy, legislation, and current affairs. MPs from all parties can participate, question ministers, and hold the government accountable for its decisions.