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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether his Department has issued guidance to local authorities on the setting of fees or charges, for profit or to increase revenue in the general fund.

Fees across the public sector, including those charged by local authorities, can only be set at the cost of delivering the service, or less. This is to ensure the public sector does not profit at the expense of consumers.

As part of the Fair Funding Review 2.0, the government has committed to conduct a review of the existing sales, fees and charges system for local government. We recognise the importance of providing local leaders greater flexibility. However, we must ensure that any changes to fees are proportionate and considered.