Reading East MP Rob Wilson: 'Delighted John Howell could share his expertise'
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Businesses told how to beat council red-tape
December 18, 2012
Businesses in Reading heard how councils looking to obstruct planning reforms are being disarmed by radical government reforms, when MP Rob Wilson hosted his latest networking meetings.
The Reading East MP attracted around 40 local business people for the latest meeting of his Portcullis Club at the Genting Casino in Richfield Avenue, where guest speaker was John Howell, MP for Henley and one of the driving forces behind the Localism Bill.
Mr Howell said the planning system had fallen into disrepute, leaving local people with no ability to get involved.
Mr Howell said: “Since the Localism Act there has been many councils which have failed to let go.
“We have taken the decision in these areas that there will be an appeal directly to the secretary of state. I am all for holding councils to account.
“It is absolutely crucial that what we mean by localism, does not stall at the local council. It’s crucial it goes down to local people.”
Mr Wilson said: “I am delighted that John Howell could share his expertise at this event and had the chance to speak to and hear the concerns of businesses from around my constituency.”
The Portcullis Club is free and open to businesses in the Reading East constituency.
Contact: 0118 375 9785.
