Reforming Planning Laws Urged as Labour Promises 1.5 Million New Homes

Senior Tories are putting pressure on Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to accelerate the construction of new houses in order to regain the support of younger voters, according to reports. This comes after the Labour party pledged to build 1.5 million new homes within five years of taking power. The call for reforming planning laws is one of fourteen proposals put forward by the Policy Exchange think-tank ahead of the King's Speech, with the aim of boosting the economy and reducing crime.

Proposals to Expedite Housing and Infrastructure Delivery

Former Cabinet Minister Sir Brandon Lewis has stated that the proposals outlined in the report would significantly speed up the delivery of much-needed housing and infrastructure. He believes that adopting these proposals would help the government regain momentum in addressing one of the most pressing public policy challenges facing the country today.

Housing as a Key Election Issue

Housing is expected to be a major battleground in the next election, particularly after the government scaled back its plans to build 300,000 new homes per year. The decision to remove nationally-imposed targets was made in response to pressure from backbench MPs. However, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer has made housing a central theme in his conference speech, expressing his support for new homes being built in local areas and advocating for the reform of planning restrictions. Sir Starmer has even referred to himself as a 'YIMBY' (Yes In My BackYard), indicating his willingness to override his own MPs to push through developments.

Support for Reforming Planning Rules for Electricity Networks

Sir Simon Clarke has also voiced his support for proposals to reform planning rules for electricity networks. These changes would expedite the construction of grid infrastructure.

Potential Shift in Energy Price Cap Model

Number 10 has been urged to consider transitioning from the current energy price cap model to a more targeted cap that specifically benefits the most vulnerable customers.

Parents' Right to Know What Children are Taught

Tory MP Miriam Cates is advocating for parents to have an "absolute right" to know the content of their children's education. She believes that parents should be able to seek a court order to prevent schools from teaching "age-inappropriate or politicised materials". Cates emphasizes that no child should undergo social transitioning without their parents' knowledge.

New Minimum Prison Terms for Shoplifters and Burglars

The report also recommends the implementation of new minimum prison terms for repeat shoplifters and burglars. This measure aims to increase deterrence and directly contribute to reducing crime.