The prime minister signalled a shift towards greener policies this week with a call for planning to deliver “sustainable development”.
Tony Blair has given Ruth Kelly, the new secretary of state for communities and local government, a “key challenge” to draw up, by the end of June, “further proposals for reform of the planning system”.
The PM’s wording of his ambition to achieve “the right balance between supporting economic growth and delivering sustainable development” is seen by observers as part of an attempt to shift Labour further “greenwards” and so trump Tory leader David Cameron on the increasingly political issue of the environment.
Kelly has taken over many of the responsibilities of deputy prime minister John Prescott and his now disbanded department.
In an open letter to Kelly, Blair also asked her to come up with proposals by June on increasing housing supply, local government reform and improving the lot of “local communities”.
The new department will also take responsibility from the Home Office for “community cohesion and equality” and Kelly will be “minister for women”.
The industry has reacted critically to this broad portfolio.
RICS chief executive Louis Armstrong said: “Are there too many responsibilities for even a heavyweight minister? Yes.
“Is there merit in thinking this department will be dysfunctional? Yes. There is concern that she lacks the clout, experience and knowledge [needed].”
Liz Peace, chief executive of the British Property Federation, added: “I regret that there had to be such a major takeover, given the complex subjects involved.
“But given the industry’s close relationship with Ruth Kelly, developed during her time at the Treasury, I hope she will bring an understanding of economic development to her role.”
References: EGi News 12/05/06
