Cambridge standards blocked again (Cambridge Liberal Democrats)

Cambridge Liberal Democrats <camlibdems@gmail.com>

Cambridge standards blocked again

May 18, 2007 10:37 AM

Cambridge MP, David Howarth, has renewed his call for Cambridge to be allowed to set high energy efficiency standards in the city.

Mr Howarth spoke during a debate in the House of Commons last night in favour of proposals to allow local authorities to set high environmental standards for new developments.

Mr Howarth commented:

"Just last week Gordon Brown announced plans to build five eco-towns across the country but yet again his Government has blocked proposals to give local authorities the power to build eco-towns in their own areas.

"Cambridge City Council wants to set high environmental standards in the new developments all over the city. The Government needs to wake up to the importance of low carbon development and stop standing in Cambridge's way."

David Howarth MP in the House of Commons Martin Caton tabled an amendment to the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Bill to grant local authorities the power to set higher standards than the Government's building regulations in their own communities. The cross-party amendment was defeated by the Government, although it received backing from all sides of the House.