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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what specific measures the Community Renewal Taskforce will take to reduce high street vacancy rates.

The Government recognises that boosting demand is key to reducing high street vacancy rates. Through the new National Planning Policy Framework, we have placed a stronger emphasis on mixed-use development, including residential development in town centres.

We are also creating the conditions for businesses to occupy vacant units, including by reforming business rates and banning upwards-only rent reviews. We have also introduced High Street Rental Auctions giving local authorities powers to take over the lease of long-term vacant units and bring them back into use.

Later this year, the Government will publish its new High Streets Strategy, setting out further measures to support thriving, resilient high streets and town centres.