Stronger Towns Fund

Debate between Fiona Bruce and James Brokenshire

Monday 4th March 2019 Commons Chamber

[James Brokenshire]

I am sure that the hon. Gentleman will be able to ask others about the situation in Northern Ireland. We will ensure, in coming back to the House, that Members of the House are informed about additional funding for Scotland and Wales, and equally, we will communicate that to the devolved Governments.

[Fiona Bruce (Congleton) (Con)]

I welcome the fact that over half of the first £1 billion of stronger towns funding will come to the north, but will the Secretary of State please consider how small towns such as Middlewich, Sandbach and Alsager in my constituency could bid directly for funding, not just through the filter of a large principal authority or a LEP, because only then will local townspeople really have confidence that their grassroots needs will be considered by the funding decision makers?

[James Brokenshire]

We are reflecting on precisely that point in terms of the separate elements of the fund—the £600 million—and the prospectus that we will produce to ensure that areas are able to make those sorts of bids. Recognising the challenges of different towns and areas and being able to feel the sense of opportunity is why we have sought to break the fund down in the way that we have.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Fiona Bruce and James Brokenshire

Monday 5th November 2018 Commons Chamber

[James Brokenshire]

I absolutely recognise and commend what the hon. Gentleman said on how collectively we challenge antisemitism and stand up for the values of this country. I pay tribute to him for the personal contribution that he has made on this issue, and equally, I reflect on the statue of Frank Foley, which the hon. Gentleman was instrumental in bringing into effect. It recognises Frank Foley’s contribution in saving the lives of thousands of Jews fleeing from persecution in Germany, and we must never forget the contribution that he and others have made.

[Fiona Bruce (Congleton) (Con)]

Many of my constituents are suffering from severe stress following the purchase of their homes on unfair leasehold terms. Does the Minister agree that tackling leasehold abuse is a matter of urgency, and will she comment on a timetable for action?

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Fiona Bruce and James Brokenshire

Monday 23rd July 2018 Commons Chamber

[James Brokenshire]

The Government intend to consult on strengthening building regulations’ energy efficiency requirements where it is cost-effective, affordable, safe and practical to do so. We do not provide energy efficiency grants. Developers should bear the costs, which is why we need to ensure that the proposals are cost-effective and do not compromise housing viability.

[Fiona Bruce (Congleton) (Con)]

Would Ministers look into the considerable length of time nationally-set local government officer disciplinary procedures are taking, so that they can be reviewed and fairness can be appropriately balanced with the cost to local council tax payers?

[James Brokenshire]

I recognise my hon. Friend’s point and I will certainly look into these matters. I could write to her with some of the details, if that would be helpful.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Fiona Bruce and James Brokenshire

Monday 18th June 2018 Commons Chamber

[Fiona Bruce (Congleton) (Con)]

T9. Will the Minister provide an update on the Housing First pilots?

[James Brokenshire]

rose—