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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will publish a list of mission critical neighbourhoods as defined by the Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods.

We welcomed the May report from the Independent Commission on Neighbourhoods entitled ‘Anatomy of Mission Critical Neighbourhoods’ and have noted the findings of the entrenched challenges these areas face, specifically in relation to economic inactivity, ill health and skills.

We have not made any assessment of bank branches in the areas ICON analysed, however we will continue to work closely with the areas supported by our Pride in Place programme to build stronger communities, create thriving places and empower local people.

Our Pride in Place programme will work closely with 244 neighbourhoods experiencing the highest levels of deprivation, delivering up to £5 billion funding and support over ten years to these areas.