Oral Answers to Questions

Janet Daby Excerpts

Monday 22nd January 2024 Commons Chamber

[Simon Hoare]

I recognise the concerns regarding Warrington’s debt. Of course, the Levelling-up and Regeneration Act 2023 provides new powers for the Government to step in and take action to protect the public purse. My experience is that where important scrutiny chairmanship roles are held by opposition parties, those who take the decisions take better decisions, and the scrutiny is much better as a result.

[Janet Daby (Lewisham East) (Lab)]

Does the Secretary of State think it is acceptable that leaseholders of Lee Court in my constituency should be without heating and hot water, as well as experiencing multiple problems in the communal area? If he does not think that is acceptable, how and when will he strengthen the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Bill to stop these injustices from happening?

[Michael Gove]

I absolutely accept that, and I believe that I wrote recently to Lewisham council to draw attention to its responsibilities in the area.