Localism Bill

I of course support my party's position, which we will say something further about this year, but, having spoken to Ministers, I know that during this period of government the plan is for a much larger transfer of powers for councils to raise and spend their own money. To put it bluntly, the Government could have not dealt with that in a year, but it is on their agenda and they are starting the reform of local government finance. I welcome their commitment to that, although we cannot do it yet. When we do it, we have to get it right—and be radical about it as well. I welcome the really important part of the Bill, on community empowerment. I am really pleased that, for example, the community will have the chance to say, ““We want to keep this shop, or this pub, or this other community facility.”” It is really important that the community will be able to say, ““We don't want that parade to end up all off licences or betting shops. We want there to be a greengrocer, a fishmonger or a baker.”” To be able to be involved in the process is really important. It is important that we build up the real engagement of people locally in the planning process, and I welcome the moves to do that.