What support his Department is providing to local authorities to develop new garden towns.

We are working with 24 garden cities, towns and villages across England to unlock barriers, broker solutions and support them with infrastructure needs. I am announcing today £3 million of additional capacity funding for 14 garden villages, bringing our total funding through this programme to £19 million.

The Secretary of State will be aware that my local authority of Uttlesford is proposing three new garden communities, but significant infrastructure is required first. What reassurance can he give them that investment for this will be forthcoming?

My hon. Friend is right to highlight the need for infrastructure when it comes to housing, which is why I am sure she will welcome the increase in funding that was in the recent Budget. I am also launching today a £25 million planning delivery fund and inviting bids from ambitious councils, and a consultation on regulations that will enable the creation of locally led new development corporations.

Does the Secretary of State accept that, when new developments are built, it is not in the interests of householders that they are leasehold estates? Will he reiterate the statement he made in July that the Government will not allow the building of any new leasehold homes, and act for those who are already being unfairly treated?

The hon. Lady will know that a consultation on this has just closed, and we will be responding to it shortly. I have said before, and I am happy to repeat, that I see no reason whatever for new houses to be sold on leasehold.