Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what recent steps he has taken to support local authorities in supporting market traders.

The government recognises that markets can make a significant contribution to the vibrancy and diversity of our high streets and town centres. It is for local authorities, not central government, to make decisions on running, supporting and investing in local markets in their areas.

We are supporting local authorities in England through the Local Government Finance Settlement. The Spending Review 2025 provides over £5 billion of new grant funding over the next three years for local services that communities rely on.

Later this year, we will also bring forward a High Streets Strategy, backed by £301 million of support, to help turn the tide on the high streets most in need.