As the Minister for Local Government, I defend government's record on sustaining important council services and say the future is looking brighter as their spending powers increase.

The Parking (Code of Practice) Bill, which cracks down on rogue private parking operators, reaches an important stage in its Parliamentary journey. As Minister responsible for its passage into law it is welcome to have support from all sides of the house for the Bill's Third Reading.

I respond in an adjournment debate called by Dan Jarvis (Labour, Barnsley) about local government funding.

Taking a Lords amendment to the Rating (Property in Common Occupation) and Council Tax (Empty Dwellings) Bill allowing councils to increase the premium they can charge property owners who leave homes empty

I respond as Minister for Local Government in an adjournment debate about public parks in Sheffield Brightside, outlining what the Government is doing to protect and enhance the parks and open spaces in Sheffield and elsewhere.

A debate about the future shape of local government in Gloucestershire held in Westminster Hall. I respond as the Minister for Local Government.

I reply in an adjournment debate about Council Tax and Second Homes called by Derek Thomas (St Ives)

I lead the second reading of a Bill iron out a legal anomaly and ensure plant nurseries enjoy the same business rates exemption as farms. 

Responding for the Government in a debate called by Nicky Morgan, the MP for Loughborough, about the important role of communities in the local planning process.

I sum up the debate on the second reading of the Tenant Fees Bill - legislation to protect tenants from unfair charges levied by letting agencies