Rating (Empty Properties) Bill

The hon. Gentleman nods his head sagely; perhaps he has constituency experience of Japanese knotweed. A further issue on which we shall consult—the hon. Member for Ludlow mentioned this—is the treatment of leaseholders who have surplus property but are unable to reduce their liability because, essentially, they are bound into what could be termed onerous agreements that do not allow for flexible sub-letting or for assignment of those leases. Our commitment to consult on that has been widely welcomed and many are looking forward to the consultation later in the year. Let me sum up by quoting two sources of expertise. The first is a firm that attempts to place small firms into available commercial property. The firm has commented that the"““proposed reform will create new opportunities for smaller companies and for more innovation and flexibility on the part of landlords.””" The firm's professional opinion is exactly what the Federation of Small Businesses was hoping for and what the Government intend as a result of this Bill. The second quote comes from Sir Peter Hall in Regeneration & Renewal last month. He believes that the Bill will provide"““the incentive necessary to reduce rents on the high street and in shopping centres, providing the opportunity for new entrants to the market place.””" In doing so, he echoes exactly the Chancellor's analysis that this measure is about competition and access. Sir Peter also points to the benefits for redevelopment and land supply and in particular for new housing starts. He concludes his article:"““It looks as if Brown is answering the call for a big increase in housing starts - on brownfield urban sites too.””" Indeed we are, and I hope that the Bill will command all-party support for its Second Reading today.