Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Steve McCabe and Kris Hopkins

Monday 3rd March 2014 Commons Chamber

[Kris Hopkins]

I, too, am concerned about those vulnerable people, so I asked about what was happening in Newcastle. Rough sleeping is down by a third, and homeless acceptances are down 26%. The number of families in bed and breakfasts for longer than six weeks has remained static: latest figures state that there are no people in B and Bs for more than six weeks.

[Steve McCabe (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab)]

15. What assessment he has made of the frequency of the use of article 4 directions by local authorities to restrict the concentration of houses in multiple occupation in residential areas; and if he will make a statement.

Oral Answers to Questions

Debate between Steve McCabe and Kris Hopkins

Monday 25th November 2013 Commons Chamber

[Kris Hopkins]

I cannot comment on individual applications, but the national planning policy is clear that any application should be approved only if the impact is, or can be, made acceptable.

[Steve McCabe (Birmingham, Selly Oak) (Lab)]

Do the Government intend to give local communities any new powers to block such developments if they consider them unwelcome?

[Kris Hopkins]

Regulations laid before the House this morning demand that developers have conversations with communities before applications are made. That is important, but having a strong local plan is also helpful.