Oral Answers to Questions

Natascha Engel Excerpts

Monday 17th September 2012 Commons Chamber

[Mr Pickles]

My hon. Friend must have come across some grumpy planning inspectors. By and large, they are there to introduce the national planning policy framework, and to ensure that decisions are made in accordance with it. Local democratically elected representatives have a duty to look to the well-being of their constituents not only now, but in future. There must always be a balance, but the green belt remains very safe.

[Natascha Engel (North East Derbyshire) (Lab)]

Will the Secretary of State guarantee that he will not alter the definition or designation of green belt?

[Mr Pickles]

Of course.

--- Later in debate ---

[Natascha Engel (North East Derbyshire) (Lab)]

T5. The bedroom tax is forcing many people to apply for much smaller council houses. What is the Department doing to ensure that local authorities such as North East Derbyshire have the money to build smaller homes?

[Mr Prisk]

We are of course, together with others, putting some £19.5 billion into the affordable housing programme. However, we need to bear in mind the other side of the coin, namely people who face overcrowding while others live on their own in three or four-bedroom properties. I have no problem with the new size criteria; indeed, there are choices, such as taking in a lodger, that could actually help people to maintain their property.