Rishi Sunak is facing pressure from senior Tories to accelerate the construction of new houses in order to regain the support of younger voters. This comes after Labour pledged to build 1.5 million new homes within five years of coming to power. The Policy Exchange think-tank has put forward fourteen new proposals, including reforming planning laws, to help stimulate the economy and reduce crime. Former Cabinet Minister Sir Brandon Lewis has expressed support for the report, stating that implementing the proposals would significantly expedite the delivery of much-needed housing and infrastructure.
Housing as a key battleground
Housing is expected to be a major issue in the next election, particularly after the government scaled back its plans last year to build 300,000 new homes annually. The government abandoned nationally-imposed targets following pressure from backbench MPs. However, Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer emphasized the importance of housing in his conference speech, stating that he does not want to hinder the construction of new homes in local areas. He also described himself as a 'YIMBY' (Yes In My BackYard), expressing a willingness to override local planning restrictions and defy his own MPs in order to promote development.
Reforming planning rules for grid infrastructure
Sir Simon Clarke has also endorsed proposals to reform planning rules for electricity networks, with the aim of expediting the construction of grid infrastructure.
Energy price cap and protecting vulnerable customers
There have been calls for the government to consider transitioning from the energy price cap model to a more targeted cap for the most vulnerable customers. This would ensure that those who need the most support receive it.
Parents' right to know what children are being taught
Tory MP Miriam Cates has argued that parents should have an "absolute right" to know what their children are being taught in schools. She has proposed granting parents the ability to seek a court order to prevent schools from teaching "age-inappropriate or politicised materials." Cates has emphasized that no child should undergo social transitioning without their parents' knowledge.
Minimum prison terms for shoplifters and burglars
The dossier also recommends the introduction of new minimum prison terms for repeat shoplifters and burglars. This measure is intended to act as a deterrent and directly contribute to reducing crime rates.
