Every parliamentary written question tabled by Calum Miller this session, with the full answer and department. Back to the MP page.
Showing 1–9 of 9 · Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Communities and Local Government, what assessment he has made of the potential impact of recent planning reforms on the protection of Sites of Special Scientific Interest.
I refer the hon. Member to the answer given to Question UIN 45684 on 7 May 2025.
Communities and Local Government, what steps his Department is taking to ensure that the planning system provides adequate protection for sites of ecological value prior to designation as Sites of Special Scientific Interest.
The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and associated Planning Practice Guidance are material considerations in the planning process. The NPPF makes clear that planning policies and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural and local environment by protecting and enhancing sites of geological value and soils. It also stipulates that development proposals should ensure that a site is suitable for its proposed use, taking account of ground conditions and any risks arising from land instability and contamination. Between 16 December 2025 and 10 March 2026, the government consulted on a new NPPF. The consultation on the revised Framework, which can be found on gov.uk here, included proposals in respect of sites of biodiversity value. We are currently analysing the feedback received and will publish our response in due course.
Communities and Local Government, what his timetable is for reaching a decision on the planning application made by Oxford United Football Club to build a new stadium at the Triangle, south of Kidlington.
A decision not to call in the planning application for a new Oxford United stadium was issued on 15 October. The application therefore remains with Cherwell District Council for determination.
Communities and Local Government, how many meetings she has had with representatives of the Chinese Government about the proposed embassy since July 2024..
In line with published propriety guidance on planning casework decisions, Planning Ministers do not hold meetings with parties where cases are before the Department for determination. More information can be found on gov.uk here.
Communities and Local Government, how many meetings she has held with activist groups who have registered concerns about the proposed Chinese embassy since July 2024.
In line with published propriety guidance on planning casework decisions, Planning Ministers do not hold meetings with parties where cases are before the Department for determination. More information can be found on gov.uk here.
Communities and Local Government, what discussions she has had with her US counterpart on the security of the proposed embassy.
The government regularly engages with representatives of foreign governments, including the United States government, to discuss a broad range of issues. The details of these discussions are not made public.In dealing with any planning application, Ministers act in accordance with published propriety guidance on planning casework decisions. More information can be found on gov.uk here.
Communities and Local Government, what steps she has taken with Cabinet colleagues to ensure restrictive leasehold legislation is not a barrier to registered childminding businesses being able to run from their homes.
The terms of a lease will set out whether individual leaseholders are able to start a childminding business in their home, and leaseholders should refer to their lease to determine whether any relevant restrictions apply.Restrictive terms under the lease may be in place for a number of reasons in residential buildings, including to protect other residents’ rights. Landlords and residents may also be restricted from running businesses from their homes under insurance and mortgage conditions.Leaseholders may be able to negotiate certain changes to the lease, by varying the lease agreement and they should speak with their landlord in the first instance. Leaseholders can also get free information and initial advice from the Leasehold Advisory Service (LEASE).
Communities and Local Government, how much funding has been provided through the British National (Overseas) Welcome Programme in each year since 2021.
Funding provided by the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government through the Hong Kong British National (Overseas) Welcome Programme is set out below. Financial year 21/22 - approximately £7.2 millionFinancial year 22/23 - approximately £9.4 millionFinancial year 23/24 - approximately £10.7 millionFinancial year 24/25 - approximately £9.5 million
Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department is taking with local planning authorities to promote net zero standards for new homes.
The Government intend to amend building regulations later this year as part of the introduction of future standards that will set more ambitious energy efficiency and carbon emissions requirements for new homes.The new standards will ensure that all new homes are future-proof, with low-carbon heating and very high-quality building fabric. This will help us to deliver our commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050, and reduce bills, tackle fuel poverty, grow skills, foster diverse job markets, and make Britain energy secure.We also recently amended the National Planning Policy Framework to emphasise the importance of climate considerations in both plan-making and decisions made by local planning authorities.