Contributions
1,571 recent contributions in Hansard
HANSARDDevolution: EnglandThere has been a huge amount of progress. My honourable friend the Minister for Regional Growth and Local Government has announced conversations with York and North Yorkshire. The…28 Jul 2020HANSARDDevolution: EnglandMy Lords, I shall have to write to the noble Baroness on that matter.28 Jul 2020HANSARDDevolution: EnglandMy Lords, I do not recognise the concept of central imposition, because the Sheffield City Region agreement that was signed yesterday and discussed in the House last week took…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesMy Lords, we cover these standards within existing building regulations, which are updated on a relatively frequent basis. It is then a matter for local authorities to adopt those…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesThe new permitted development rights and changes to the use classes order that we announced on 21 July will reduce planning bureaucracy, speed up housing delivery, support home…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesMy Lords, I point out that permitted development has yielded 60,000 homes that would not otherwise have been available. On the point on quality, the report raises some concerns…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesSpace standards are of course outlined in building regulations, and there are strict requirements with regard to building safety covering all development, including permitted…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesThe noble Lord makes an important point about the importance of ensuring that we have adequate infrastructure to fuel the continued delivery of homes, and that the Housing…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesMy noble friend knows that open space, sports and recreation facilities are taken into account in the National Planning Policy Framework, and there is no suggestion made by the…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesThese new measures are about unlocking housing potential and housing growth for the much-needed homes that we need. I point to the fact that we are investing £12 billion to build…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesMy Lords, the planning system can be improved. We are seeking to do that through the measures that we have outlined as a Government, and will continue to do so with more planning…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesMy Lords, I point out that the National Planning Policy Framework is clear that local planning authorities are expected to identify all types of housing, including the housing…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesMy Lords, certain uses—such as theatres, pubs and other venues—are protected in the planning rules. This will continue to ensure that we have entirely the sorts of uses that the…28 Jul 2020HANSARDPlanning RulesI am aware of the issue raised by noble Baroness and would be happy to meet her as soon as she is able to.28 Jul 2020HANSARDEnglish Language LearningMy Lords, we recognise that being able to read and write in English is vital to supporting integration. That is why the ESOL for Integration Fund supports learners across 30 areas…27 Jul 2020HANSARDEnglish Language LearningMy Lords, there is a clear requirement under the equalities Act to provide information in a way that is accessible to all, including to those who hard of hearing or deaf. There is…27 Jul 2020HANSARDEnglish Language LearningMy Lords, I will have to write to the noble Lord about the precise number. Where I have had a choice, we have made sure the provisions have been made available in numerous…27 Jul 2020HANSARDEnglish Language LearningMy Lords, a lack of English skills presents a clear barrier to social and economic mobility. As a Government, we will always focus on the practical solutions that can make a real…27 Jul 2020HANSARDEnglish Language LearningEnglish language requirements are already in place for individuals who are seeking to live, work or study in the UK. Where appropriate, all applicants for settlement and…27 Jul 2020HANSARDEnglish Language LearningMy Lords, I agree with the noble Lord. The recent census showed that 770,000 people who live in England speak little or no English. We need to work hard to ensure that we provide…27 Jul 2020