§ Mr. HinchliffeTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what powers are available to local authorities to enable them to maintain the competitiveness of town and city shopping centres against out-of-town shopping centres; and if he will make a statement. [24020]
§ Sir Paul BeresfordLocal authorities can help by ensuring that the services for which they are responsible are delivered as effectively and efficiently as possible. This includes providing a clear planning framework and local plan that properly reflects the principles set out in PPG6—retailing and town centres—and PPG13—transport.