Robert Jenrick went on to say that long-term benefits claimants will be made to clean up their local high street and do charity work or face having their benefits taken away.<\/p>\n
He said as part of the party\u2019s \u201cwelfare to work\u201d policy, long-term claimants, who are fit to work, will be forced to do 20-hours of work a week in the community.<\/p>\n
The scheme would be run by their local councils and those who do not put work placements in will have their funding cut, he said.<\/p>\n
Speaking at the event in central London, the former Conservative cabinet minister said:<\/p>\n
\ndouble quotation mark<\/title><path d=\"M5.255 0h4.75c-.572 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941H0C.792 9.104 2.44 4.53 5.255 0Zm11.061 0H21c-.506 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941h-8.686c.902-4.837 2.485-9.411 5.3-13.941Z\"\/><\/svg><em>They\u2019ll work to clean up high streets and parks, to beautify neglected places, to carry out minor repairs, to staff libraries and community centres to perform many other tasks from the list that we\u2019ve published today.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>We\u2019ll also embrace local charities and community groups and ask them to help us and take part. If claimants refuse to participate or fail to show up, they\u2019ll face penalties.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Let me speak very plainly. If people who are capable of work refuse, then they\u2019ll get nothing. That\u2019s fair.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c#block-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/p>\n<p>Updated at\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-08-17T11:06:14.000Z\" data-locale=\"en-gb\" title=\"Monday, 17 August 2026 at 12:06 British Summer Time\">12.06 BST<\/time><\/p>\n<\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<p><label for=\"pinned-post-checkbox\" id=\"pinned-post-button\" class=\"dcr-154ejbu\"><span id=\"svgchevronupsingle\" class=\"dcr-1344pan\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M23 16.768 12.502 6.27h-1.004L1 16.768l.98.954L12 9.284l10.02 8.438z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span id=\"svgchevrondownsingle\" class=\"dcr-1344pan\"><svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"m1 7.224 10.498 10.498h1.004L23 7.224l-.98-.954L12 14.708 1.98 6.27z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/label><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-1wrshbb\"><gu-island name=\"KeyEventsCarousel\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"keyEvents":[{"id":"6a82f2978f08d002b566c705","elements":[{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>When asked if climate change is real during the Q&A section of the press conference, Reform UK\u2019s deputy leader, Richard Tice, sought to downplay the catastrophic effects of the climate crisis, including to crops, animal habitats and human health, that we saw amid the extended period of hot and dry weather this summer. Tice suggested that we should adapt to the \u201cchanging\u201d climate rather than actively pursue policy intervention.<\/p>","elementId":"f80cfbea-f7ca-47ae-8519-af632cb37371"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Tice told journalists at the Reform UK press conference:<\/p>","elementId":"168a3451-3e74-4f39-9fba-eb59d070ceb7"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.BlockquoteBlockElement","html":"<blockquote class=\\"quoted\\">\\n <p><em>Of course climate change is real. But where is the evidence that net zero is going to stop it. Where is the evidence? There isn\u2019t any.<\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>Climate change has always happened \u2013 it always will. Maybe the smarter thing to do is to adapt to it than think arrogantly that you can stop it.<\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>I am old enough to remember 1976 this feels a bit to same. That was 50 years ago. I think when it is a bit warm, let\u2019s enjoy it. <\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>And if it means that English wine and sparkling wine gets better and better \u2013 fantastic! That means we can take on the French, fantastic! Lets celebrate some of things rather than just be sort of doom and gloom about it. <\/em><\/p>\\n<\/blockquote>","elementId":"84d2a109-b03a-4f9b-a6c3-3da3f56b3f6c"}],"attributes":{"pinned":false,"keyEvent":true,"summary":false},"blockCreatedOn":1786966679000,"blockCreatedOnDisplay":"12.37\u00a0BST","blockLastUpdated":1786967680000,"blockLastUpdatedDisplay":"12.54\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublished":1786967680000,"blockFirstPublishedDisplay":"12.54\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublishedDisplayNoTimezone":"12.54","title":"Richard Tice suggests we should 'adapt' to the climate crisis, arguing we 'can't stop it'","contributors":[],"primaryDateLine":"Mon 17 Aug 2026 12.54 BST","secondaryDateLine":"First published on Mon 17 Aug 2026 09.05 BST"},{"id":"6a82e3cc8f08d002b566c66c","elements":[{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Robert Jenrick said staying on benefits is consigning claimants \u201cto a life on welfare\u201d, which he argues wastes people\u2019s \u201cpotential\u201d and places a huge burden on the taxpayer.<\/p>","elementId":"96b0a225-486f-4bbc-bc2b-660385adead5"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>A high number of benefit claimants are in work and many people are unable to find work despite trying hard to land job. There are also deeper problems in the economy like worsening health and a dysfunctional housing market that Jenrick misses in his analysis.<\/p>","elementId":"35803323-7282-4a92-889c-355b762f036e"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Reform\u2019s treasury spokesperson went on to say that the party will introduce a new system of \u201creturn to work cover\u201d which he says will cut disability claims by 40%.<\/p>","elementId":"dc6b5e35-2e8f-477e-8ba0-46bfaa04b925"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Explaining the proposal, which he claims will not come at any extra cost to businesses, Jenrick said:<\/p>","elementId":"b513f57f-3d6a-416f-bea1-7c3038c9021d"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.BlockquoteBlockElement","html":"<blockquote class=\\"quoted\\">\\n <p><em>For the first two years of an employee being signed off sick they will remain on their employer\u2019s books, receiving payments based on welfare rates.<\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>Employer\u2019s national insurance contributions will be cut nationally to offset those costs, giving the employers who know their workers best an incentive, firstly to look after them well when they are in work and then to help them back into work if they are off sick \u2013 rather than just passing the bill to the taxpayer and forgetting about their workers.<\/em><\/p>\\n<\/blockquote>","elementId":"666c6cc8-5ba1-427e-b0e7-74d7d62eac12"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Speaking about those unable to return to work, Jenrick said: \u201cCash support above standard universal credit rates will be reserved for severe cases and those who need additional help beyond living costs will receive it in-kind through disability support accounts, and the most vulnerable will continue to be supported through personal independence payments.\u201d He said people unable to return to work will go through a single disability- needs assessment, replacing the more complicated existing system.<\/p>","elementId":"491911cf-db5d-4ed1-b01c-9562c0e4382c"}],"attributes":{"pinned":false,"keyEvent":true,"summary":false},"blockCreatedOn":1786962892000,"blockCreatedOnDisplay":"11.34\u00a0BST","blockLastUpdated":1786964590000,"blockLastUpdatedDisplay":"12.03\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublished":1786964219000,"blockFirstPublishedDisplay":"11.56\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublishedDisplayNoTimezone":"11.56","title":"Jenrick claims new 'return to work' system will cut disability claims by 40%","contributors":[],"primaryDateLine":"Mon 17 Aug 2026 12.54 BST","secondaryDateLine":"First published on Mon 17 Aug 2026 09.05 BST"},{"id":"6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c","elements":[{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Robert Jenrick went on to say that long-term benefits claimants will be made to clean up their local high street and do charity work or face having their benefits taken away.<\/p>","elementId":"cc91b82e-ba95-4a35-b2ab-11bbd9efb1b1"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>He said as part of the party\u2019s \u201cwelfare to work\u201d policy, long-term claimants, who are fit to work, will be forced to do 20-hours of work a week in the community.<\/p>","elementId":"c29c82f4-97f6-4805-a9bd-69cc1be89eeb"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>The scheme would be run by their local councils and those who do not put work placements in will have their funding cut, he said.<\/p>","elementId":"1b3a3a8c-52bb-473c-8af3-d286a27313fc"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Speaking at the event in central London, the former Conservative cabinet minister said:<\/p>","elementId":"3d944af7-9e2f-436a-9eb2-f5f81b0a83a6"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.BlockquoteBlockElement","html":"<blockquote class=\\"quoted\\">\\n <p><em>They\u2019ll work to clean up high streets and parks, to beautify neglected places, to carry out minor repairs, to staff libraries and community centres to perform many other tasks from the list that we\u2019ve published today.<\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>We\u2019ll also embrace local charities and community groups and ask them to help us and take part. If claimants refuse to participate or fail to show up, they\u2019ll face penalties.<\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>Let me speak very plainly. If people who are capable of work refuse, then they\u2019ll get nothing. That\u2019s fair.<\/em><\/p>\\n<\/blockquote>","elementId":"708c86a0-6639-47ac-9588-1b8fcd87506d"}],"attributes":{"pinned":true,"keyEvent":true,"summary":false},"blockCreatedOn":1786962610000,"blockCreatedOnDisplay":"11.30\u00a0BST","blockLastUpdated":1786964774000,"blockLastUpdatedDisplay":"12.06\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublished":1786962832000,"blockFirstPublishedDisplay":"11.33\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublishedDisplayNoTimezone":"11.33","title":"Long-term benefit claimants will have to clean up high streets if they want to keep benefits, Jenrick says","contributors":[],"primaryDateLine":"Mon 17 Aug 2026 12.54 BST","secondaryDateLine":"First published on Mon 17 Aug 2026 09.05 BST"},{"id":"6a82de2e8f088792503ed85e","elements":[{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Robert Jenrick, Reform\u2019s finance spokesperson, is giving a press conference about the party\u2019s proposed welfare changes. You can watch it live here.<\/p>","elementId":"ad3463f6-e93f-43c1-89d5-4c03961bbfae"},{"expired":false,"assetId":"ueSdTPNM4Gg","posterImage":[{"url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/2000.jpg","width":2000},{"url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/1000.jpg","width":1000},{"url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/500.jpg","width":500},{"url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/140.jpg","width":140},{"url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg","width":5995}],"id":"6566fd22-58f8-435c-87cf-00b82a0132e7","caption":"Robert Jenrick gives Reform UK news conference \u2013 watch live","elementId":"f10c579d-47d4-4119-8cab-a103d36e3a92","duration":0,"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.YoutubeBlockElement","mediaTitle":"Robert Jenrick gives Reform UK news conference \u2013 watch live","channelId":"UCIRYBXDze5krPDzAEOxFGVA"}],"attributes":{"pinned":false,"keyEvent":true,"summary":false},"blockCreatedOn":1786961454000,"blockCreatedOnDisplay":"11.10\u00a0BST","blockLastUpdated":1786961984000,"blockLastUpdatedDisplay":"11.19\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublished":1786961572000,"blockFirstPublishedDisplay":"11.12\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublishedDisplayNoTimezone":"11.12","title":"Reform UK announces welfare plans in press conference","contributors":[],"primaryDateLine":"Mon 17 Aug 2026 12.54 BST","secondaryDateLine":"First published on Mon 17 Aug 2026 09.05 BST"},{"id":"6a82c6b68f08d002b566c546","elements":[{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Reform UK has said foreign nationals would be banned from claiming almost all kinds of benefits in the UK if the party came into power following the next general election.<\/p>","elementId":"211ee503-a7c4-4f23-ba5c-36021cd6fd74"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>The affected welfare payments include housing benefit, pension credit, jobseeker\u2019s allowance, child benefit, free childcare and disability benefits. There would be only a small number of exemptions, including the War Widows Pension and Armed Forces compensation.<\/p>","elementId":"d61ed8cd-fc68-417f-82d1-3164b98d82c8"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>The ban would cover EU nationals with settled status in the UK, something that would require the party to renegotiate Britain\u2019s EU withdrawal agreement and potentially mean British expatriates in the bloc losing equivalent rights.<\/p>","elementId":"ec8da000-65af-4996-9829-98a08f02c743"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Reform claims the policy would save up to \u00a321bn a year by its fifth year, but <a href=\\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/labour\\" data-component=\\"auto-linked-tag\\">Labour<\/a> highlights the fact that the \u201cvast majority\u201d of migrants have no access to benefits.<\/p>","elementId":"420094fe-05db-4e07-ab79-659eba9ba08f"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>A Labour spokesperson said:<\/p>","elementId":"d884684d-b0c6-412b-9454-bcbc2d69d99f"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.BlockquoteBlockElement","html":"<blockquote class=\\"quoted\\">\\n <p><em>These plans would mean ripping up the UK\u2019s withdrawal agreement with the EU, plunging the UK back into years of Brexit renegotiations and stripping support from potentially millions of people who have lawfully lived, worked and paid taxes in Britain for years, and in many cases decades.<\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>That includes people with settled status who are part of our communities, raising families, working and contributing to our economy.<\/em><\/p>\\n<\/blockquote>","elementId":"1903be81-bbe7-4ae2-ba36-b1e711dee3fc"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Robert Jenrick, Reform\u2019s finance spokesperson, is expected to outline \u00a350bn of cuts to benefits for disabled people and foreign nationals at a Westminster press conference today at 11am. Mothin Ali, the deputy leader of the Greens, said:<\/p>","elementId":"046b914a-b75d-4b9a-b3a8-261744cde29b"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.BlockquoteBlockElement","html":"<blockquote class=\\"quoted\\">\\n <p><em>Once again, the establishment parties are all trying to outdo each other when it comes to who can be the most xenophobic, who can punch down the hardest to the most vulnerable in our country, and who can cut the most support from disabled people. <\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>It is cowardly to take from the most defenceless when we should be taxing the super wealthy including those who are in the privileged position of accepting \u00a35m donations.<\/em><\/p>\\n<\/blockquote>","elementId":"9757a45b-bf00-4064-918d-4409cdfd4acf"}],"attributes":{"pinned":false,"keyEvent":true,"summary":false},"blockCreatedOn":1786955446000,"blockCreatedOnDisplay":"09.30\u00a0BST","blockLastUpdated":1786956572000,"blockLastUpdatedDisplay":"09.49\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublished":1786956572000,"blockFirstPublishedDisplay":"09.49\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublishedDisplayNoTimezone":"09.49","title":"Reform UK says it would ban foreign nationals from claiming most benefits","contributors":[],"primaryDateLine":"Mon 17 Aug 2026 12.54 BST","secondaryDateLine":"First published on Mon 17 Aug 2026 09.05 BST"},{"id":"6a82c10e8f08d002b566c526","elements":[{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Andy Burnham exchanged messages with someone impersonating Donald Trump\u2019s chief of staff, according to reports. <a href=\\"https:\/\/www.politico.eu\/newsletter\/london-playbook\/hostile-environment\/\\">According to Politico\u2019s Playbook<\/a>, the prime minister talked with someone posing as the White House chief of staff, Susie Wiles, before he became suspicious and concerns were raised about the incident.<\/p>","elementId":"968f6105-6c15-43ff-ae80-bdceedd09ae1"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Downing Street sources have downplayed the significance of the messages. But the incident prompted serious concern at the British embassy \u2013 so much so that officials raised their concerns with their counterparts in the US.<\/p>","elementId":"a35fd197-8b5a-4b04-8f50-0b06456615f6"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Last year, <a href=\\"https:\/\/www.wsj.com\/politics\/policy\/federal-authorities-probe-effort-to-impersonate-white-house-chief-of-staff-65da0d59\\">The Wall Street Journal reported<\/a> that the FBI had launched an investigation into efforts to access Wiles\u2019 phone after an unknown person contacted prominent Republicans and business chiefs while pretending to be her.<\/p>","elementId":"9de38b42-155f-471c-9223-ce4b4727556e"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>In March, the <a href=\\"https:\/\/www.theatlantic.com\/politics\/2026\/03\/trump-phone-number\/686370\/\\">Atlantic reported<\/a> that the White House had been told Donald Trump\u2019s contact details had been offered for sale to people seeking influence. \u201cIt\u2019s honestly just wild,\u201d one of them told the outlet. \u201cI\u2019ve heard of CEOs offering money for his number. I\u2019ve heard of crypto bros offering cryptocurrency for it.\u201d<\/p>","elementId":"0bd6472e-b931-4aba-aeba-aca785c23f64"},{"displayCredit":true,"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.ImageBlockElement","role":"inline","media":{"allImages":[{"index":0,"fields":{"height":"2321","width":"3481"},"mediaType":"Image","mimeType":"image\/jpeg","url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/3481.jpg"},{"index":1,"fields":{"isMaster":"true","height":"2321","width":"3481"},"mediaType":"Image","mimeType":"image\/jpeg","url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg"},{"index":2,"fields":{"height":"1334","width":"2000"},"mediaType":"Image","mimeType":"image\/jpeg","url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/2000.jpg"},{"index":3,"fields":{"height":"667","width":"1000"},"mediaType":"Image","mimeType":"image\/jpeg","url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/1000.jpg"},{"index":4,"fields":{"height":"333","width":"500"},"mediaType":"Image","mimeType":"image\/jpeg","url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/500.jpg"},{"index":5,"fields":{"height":"93","width":"140"},"mediaType":"Image","mimeType":"image\/jpeg","url":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/140.jpg"}]},"elementId":"817ca0a4-8f26-4631-880a-a3bf27df264f","imageSources":[{"weighting":"inline","srcSet":[{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=620&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=113fcdead638ed2034401cf8b3613584","width":620},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=620&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=2b3063cf708dd249449f0611e787102e","width":1240},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=605&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=8571427939ea01c1a73d09d5219b88a7","width":605},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=605&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=01fc9f9f9e577fb95fbf977b8805112b","width":1210},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=445&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=41fd4dfcf42b03657ad5e709036d4a62","width":445},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=445&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=6adab5b7eba3c0b508b5f36547e530a1","width":890}]},{"weighting":"thumbnail","srcSet":[{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=140&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=02f959c9dbdbfd0312b445b0ef247e87","width":140},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=140&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=09c256c2c9222e1cba2bc5be0a8d2f7e","width":280},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=120&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=39eaf5091d6836144320097e0607c881","width":120},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=120&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=faaab4a34a502fdbf38eb5b7a3ac4a19","width":240}]},{"weighting":"supporting","srcSet":[{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=380&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=cca358be6c61c4fe7eedcc7ba63b5474","width":380},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=380&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=9ac1779f200be19dcc45da7bef531dff","width":760},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=300&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=2a316c7b250f0a2171788c4e87836663","width":300},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=300&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=26242110da4f43833b5aad174c56693b","width":600},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=620&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=113fcdead638ed2034401cf8b3613584","width":620},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/eca3dc8b6838c580b0b02695ce47954f2a67d02e\/0_0_3481_2321\/master\/3481.jpg?width=620&quality=45&auto=format&fit=max&dpr=2&s=2b3063cf708dd249449f0611e787102e","width":1240},{"src":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk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Trump praises his then campaign senior adviser Susie Wiles during an election night event at the Palm Beach Convention Center on 6 November 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida.","caption":"Donald Trump praises his then campaign senior adviser Susie Wiles during an election night event at the Palm Beach Convention Center on 6 November 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida.","credit":"Photograph: Chip Somodevilla\/Getty Images"}}],"attributes":{"pinned":false,"keyEvent":true,"summary":false},"blockCreatedOn":1786953998000,"blockCreatedOnDisplay":"09.06\u00a0BST","blockLastUpdated":1786960657000,"blockLastUpdatedDisplay":"10.57\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublished":1786955250000,"blockFirstPublishedDisplay":"09.27\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublishedDisplayNoTimezone":"09.27","title":"Andy Burnham exchanged messages with Trump chief of staff impersonator - report","contributors":[],"primaryDateLine":"Mon 17 Aug 2026 12.54 BST","secondaryDateLine":"First published on Mon 17 Aug 2026 09.05 BST"},{"id":"6a82b5d48f08d002b566c4e7","elements":[{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of UK politics. Thousands more homes could be built within 10 minutes of transport hubs, including on green belt sites, as part of changes to government planning rules in England.<\/p>","elementId":"93458ff5-923a-4ca3-83c6-c77eca8484da"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Under the government\u2019s new National Planning Policy Framework, which you can read in full <a href=\\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/national-planning-policy-framework-proposed-reforms-and-other-changes-to-the-planning-system\\">here<\/a>, there will be default approval for homes being built around railway stations in a bid to increase housebuilding numbers. There will also be new minimum expectations for how much housing should be built in these areas.<\/p>","elementId":"90732d70-bf3a-47e2-ab48-cfab1a84b99a"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Ministers have pledged to build 1.5m new homes by 2029 \u2013 but this target will fall short on the current trajectory, with the government about a quarter of the way to its target, two years into a five-year parliament. We have not been told what areas will be targeted in the new housebuilding drive, but the <a href=\\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/areas-rail-stations-thousands-homes-built-green-belt-4710652\\">i reports<\/a> that one key criteria is that nearby rail stations can run a minimum of four trains per hour into a large urban 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hope the new policy will help the government achieve its target of 1.5m new properties being built by the end of this parliament.","caption":"Ministers hope the new policy will help the government achieve its target of 1.5m new properties being built by the end of this parliament.","credit":"Photograph: Christopher Thomond\/The Guardian"}},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>The plans risk a backlash from campaigners who want to see greenbelt areas protected.<\/p>","elementId":"64b95073-ad1f-4d83-bff6-0b5dc9a86464"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Asked whether the \u201cdefault yes\u201d approach to planning approval would apply to greenbelt land, the housing minister, Matthew Pennycook, confirmed to Sky News this morning: \u201cFor well-connected stations outside of settlements, including the greenbelt, that default policy applies.\u201d<\/p>","elementId":"ef6751ac-03a8-4607-a31b-4ca45b4f6f3d"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Asked about concerns this may raise, he said:<\/p>","elementId":"22959729-33c7-410d-8dd4-0e10015fa183"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.BlockquoteBlockElement","html":"<blockquote class=\\"quoted\\">\\n <p><em>It may cause some concern, but as I\u2019ve said many, many times, we know there is not enough land on brownfield land registers across the country, so previously developed land, to deliver the volumes of homes our country needs each year, at least those that are viable and in the right location.<\/em><\/p>\\n <p><em>So, in exceptional circumstances, greenbelt land should be developed on. We\u2019ve got a sequential approach for how we judge the lower quality land to come forward in the first instance.<\/em><\/p>\\n<\/blockquote>","elementId":"5ad33a0e-5a92-4287-b593-2b428a57d896"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>Reform UK\u2019s deputy leader Richard Tice said the changes, which come into effect from today, undermine the government\u2019s devolution agenda.<\/p>","elementId":"e1991226-faba-4650-9b38-34d88ef53af5"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>\u201cFar from empowering local councils who actually know their communities, they strip power from the people who live there and hand it to Whitehall so ministers can ram through major housing developments while sidelining residents and ignoring the infrastructure that already can\u2019t cope,\u201d he said.<\/p>","elementId":"a1513639-53e6-40ea-b811-e38f55416255"},{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.TextBlockElement","html":"<p>James Cleverly, the shadow housing secretary, said: \u201cTo try to fix their own mess, <a href=\\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/labour\\" data-component=\\"auto-linked-tag\\">Labour<\/a> are planning a power grab, seizing control from local communities and forcing them to accept development in the wrong areas because Labour won\u2019t build in the right areas. Labour\u2019s planning power grab is exposing our green belt and countryside to unauthorised Traveller sites, and ministers are turning a blind eye.\u201d<\/p>","elementId":"1743e4a4-9966-4034-9e78-853584685f66"}],"attributes":{"pinned":false,"keyEvent":true,"summary":false},"blockCreatedOn":1786953955000,"blockCreatedOnDisplay":"09.05\u00a0BST","blockLastUpdated":1786953779000,"blockLastUpdatedDisplay":"09.02\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublished":1786953955000,"blockFirstPublishedDisplay":"09.05\u00a0BST","blockFirstPublishedDisplayNoTimezone":"09.05","title":"Housebuilding near train stations will be given 'default yes' under new planning changes","contributors":[],"primaryDateLine":"Mon 17 Aug 2026 12.54 BST","secondaryDateLine":"First published on Mon 17 Aug 2026 09.05 BST"}],"id":"key-events-carousel-mobile","renderingTarget":"Web","serverTime":1786967752098}\"><span id=\"key-events-carousel-mobile\"\/><span class=\"dcr-1wrshbb\"><\/p>\n<p>Key events<\/p>\n<p><\/span><\/gu-island><\/span><\/p>\n<article id=\"block-6a82f2978f08d002b566c705\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<h2 class=\"dcr-1pxv6ha\">Richard Tice suggests we should ‘adapt’ to the climate crisis, arguing we ‘can’t stop it’<\/h2>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">When asked if climate change is real during the Q&A section of the press conference, Reform UK\u2019s deputy leader, Richard Tice, sought to downplay the catastrophic effects of the climate crisis, including to crops, animal habitats and human health, that we saw amid the extended period of hot and dry weather this summer. Tice suggested that we should adapt to the \u201cchanging\u201d climate rather than actively pursue policy intervention.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Tice told journalists at the Reform UK press conference:<\/p>\n<blockquote data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-146y1tk\">\n<p><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 14\" style=\"fill:var(--block-quote-fill)\" class=\"dcr-1usi6vc\"><title>double quotation mark<\/title><path d=\"M5.255 0h4.75c-.572 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941H0C.792 9.104 2.44 4.53 5.255 0Zm11.061 0H21c-.506 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941h-8.686c.902-4.837 2.485-9.411 5.3-13.941Z\"\/><\/svg><em>Of course climate change is real. But where is the evidence that net zero is going to stop it. Where is the evidence? There isn\u2019t any.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Climate change has always happened \u2013 it always will. Maybe the smarter thing to do is to adapt to it than think arrogantly that you can stop it.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>I am old enough to remember 1976 this feels a bit to same. That was 50 years ago. I think when it is a bit warm, let\u2019s enjoy it. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>And if it means that English wine and sparkling wine gets better and better \u2013 fantastic! That means we can take on the French, fantastic! Lets celebrate some of things rather than just be sort of doom and gloom about it. <\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82f2978f08d002b566c705","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82f2978f08d002b566c705"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82f2978f08d002b566c705#block-6a82f2978f08d002b566c705\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container ad-slot-desktop dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82eb428f08d002b566c6b3\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\"\/>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Jenrick says that councils that fail to implement \u201cwork placements\u201d properly and \u201cin full\u201d will risk cuts to their funding. He claims Reform UK\u2019s plans to remove disability benefits from millions of people and almost all benefits from foreign nationals will save about \u00a350bn in total.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">He said without the changes, the cost to the welfare system will rise further, culminating in what could be a \u201cgenuine national debt crisis\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">According to a 2024 report by the Resolution Foundation, pensioners<strong> <\/strong>were the only group to benefit from radical changes to the welfare system made by the Tories since 2010. The Conservatives\u2019 14-year overhaul of social security shifted spending away from children and housing to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/article\/2024\/may\/28\/reality-check-can-treasury-afford-pledge-to-raise-tax-free-pension-allowance\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">supporting elderly people<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">A huge chunk of the \u2018welfare bill\u2019 comes from spending on pensioners, mostly due to the largely politically uncontested triple lock on the state pension and the growing pensioner population. Reform UK has said it would cut the benefits bill by billions of pounds in order to keep the triple lock on state pensions if the party came into power.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">As a reminder, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/2026\/jan\/15\/robert-jenrick-defects-to-reform-uk-after-conservative-party-suspension\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">before his high-profle defection to Reform earlier this year<\/a>, Jenrick held senior positions in the Conservative governments he now regularly criticises.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">He was immigration minister as part of Rishi Sunak\u2019s government before his resignation from the post in late 2023, served as health minister between September and October 2022, the housing secretary between July 2019 and September 2021, and was the exchequer secretary to the Treasury between January 2018 and July 2019.<\/p>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82eb428f08d002b566c6b3","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82eb428f08d002b566c6b3"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82eb428f08d002b566c6b3#block-6a82eb428f08d002b566c6b3\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"block-6a82e3cc8f08d002b566c66c\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<h2 class=\"dcr-1pxv6ha\">Jenrick claims new ‘return to work’ system will cut disability claims by 40%<\/h2>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Robert Jenrick said staying on benefits is consigning claimants \u201cto a life on welfare\u201d, which he argues wastes people\u2019s \u201cpotential\u201d and places a huge burden on the taxpayer.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">A high number of benefit claimants are in work and many people are unable to find work despite trying hard to land job. There are also deeper problems in the economy like worsening health and a dysfunctional housing market that Jenrick misses in his analysis.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Reform\u2019s treasury spokesperson went on to say that the party will introduce a new system of \u201creturn to work cover\u201d which he says will cut disability claims by 40%.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Explaining the proposal, which he claims will not come at any extra cost to businesses, Jenrick said:<\/p>\n<blockquote data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-146y1tk\">\n<p><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 14\" style=\"fill:var(--block-quote-fill)\" class=\"dcr-1usi6vc\"><title>double quotation mark<\/title><path d=\"M5.255 0h4.75c-.572 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941H0C.792 9.104 2.44 4.53 5.255 0Zm11.061 0H21c-.506 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941h-8.686c.902-4.837 2.485-9.411 5.3-13.941Z\"\/><\/svg><em>For the first two years of an employee being signed off sick they will remain on their employer\u2019s books, receiving payments based on welfare rates.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Employer\u2019s national insurance contributions will be cut nationally to offset those costs, giving the employers who know their workers best an incentive, firstly to look after them well when they are in work and then to help them back into work if they are off sick \u2013 rather than just passing the bill to the taxpayer and forgetting about their workers.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Speaking about those unable to return to work, Jenrick said: \u201cCash support above standard universal credit rates will be reserved for severe cases and those who need additional help beyond living costs will receive it in-kind through disability support accounts, and the most vulnerable will continue to be supported through personal independence payments.\u201d He said people unable to return to work will go through a single disability- needs assessment, replacing the more complicated existing system.<\/p>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82e3cc8f08d002b566c66c","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82e3cc8f08d002b566c66c"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82e3cc8f08d002b566c66c#block-6a82e3cc8f08d002b566c66c\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/p>\n<p>Updated at\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-08-17T11:03:10.000Z\" data-locale=\"en-gb\" title=\"Monday, 17 August 2026 at 12:03 British Summer Time\">12.03 BST<\/time><\/p>\n<\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container ad-slot-desktop dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<h2 class=\"dcr-1pxv6ha\">Long-term benefit claimants will have to clean up high streets if they want to keep benefits, Jenrick says<\/h2>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Robert Jenrick went on to say that long-term benefits claimants will be made to clean up their local high street and do charity work or face having their benefits taken away.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">He said as part of the party\u2019s \u201cwelfare to work\u201d policy, long-term claimants, who are fit to work, will be forced to do 20-hours of work a week in the community.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The scheme would be run by their local councils and those who do not put work placements in will have their funding cut, he said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Speaking at the event in central London, the former Conservative cabinet minister said:<\/p>\n<blockquote data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-146y1tk\">\n<p><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 14\" style=\"fill:var(--block-quote-fill)\" class=\"dcr-1usi6vc\"><title>double quotation mark<\/title><path d=\"M5.255 0h4.75c-.572 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941H0C.792 9.104 2.44 4.53 5.255 0Zm11.061 0H21c-.506 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941h-8.686c.902-4.837 2.485-9.411 5.3-13.941Z\"\/><\/svg><em>They\u2019ll work to clean up high streets and parks, to beautify neglected places, to carry out minor repairs, to staff libraries and community centres to perform many other tasks from the list that we\u2019ve published today.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>We\u2019ll also embrace local charities and community groups and ask them to help us and take part. If claimants refuse to participate or fail to show up, they\u2019ll face penalties.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>Let me speak very plainly. If people who are capable of work refuse, then they\u2019ll get nothing. That\u2019s fair.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c#block-6a82e2b28f08d002b566c65c\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/p>\n<p>Updated at\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-08-17T11:06:14.000Z\" data-locale=\"en-gb\" title=\"Monday, 17 August 2026 at 12:06 British Summer Time\">12.06 BST<\/time><\/p>\n<\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"block-6a82e0048f08bd3e82544e13\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\"\/>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Robert Jenrick, the party\u2019s treasury spokesperson, told journalists that the \u201cmost vulnerable\u201d people will continue to be supported through \u201cpersonal independent payments\u201d which he says will be \u201creformed and enhanced\u201d as \u201cPip health security allowances\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">He says other changes, including reforming child disability living allowance, clamping down on fraud and the reinstatement of the two child benefit cap, would save \u00a349bn. Jenrick did not provide a breakdown of how much eat benefit cut would save.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Reform projects that 2.89 million people would have their disability payments\u2019 removed or changed under plans to abolish the Personal Independent Payments (Pip) system in its current form for working age people, according to the BBC.<\/p>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82e0048f08bd3e82544e13","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82e0048f08bd3e82544e13"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82e0048f08bd3e82544e13#block-6a82e0048f08bd3e82544e13\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82de2e8f088792503ed85e\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<h2 class=\"dcr-1pxv6ha\">Reform UK announces welfare plans in press conference<\/h2>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Robert Jenrick, Reform\u2019s finance spokesperson, is giving a press conference about the party\u2019s proposed welfare changes. You can watch it live here.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"92664ce8-94af-435f-b37e-58506900c754\" data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" data-spacefinder-type=\"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.YoutubeBlockElement\" class=\"dcr-d9bay7\"><gu-island name=\"YoutubeBlockComponent\" priority=\"critical\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"id":"6566fd22-58f8-435c-87cf-00b82a0132e7","assetId":"ueSdTPNM4Gg","index":1,"format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"isMainMedia":false,"expired":false,"posterImage":"https:\/\/media.guim.co.uk\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg","duration":0,"mediaTitle":"Robert Jenrick gives Reform UK news conference \u2013 watch live","origin":"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com","stickyVideos":true,"enableAds":true,"hidePillOnMobile":false}\"><\/p>\n<div data-chromatic=\"ignore\">\n<div data-component=\"youtube-atom\" data-atom-id=\"6566fd22-58f8-435c-87cf-00b82a0132e7\" data-video-id=\"ueSdTPNM4Gg\" data-video-unique-id=\"ueSdTPNM4Gg-1\">\n<div data-testid=\"youtube-sticky-ueSdTPNM4Gg-1\" data-is-sticky=\"false\" class=\"dcr-0\">\n<div class=\"dcr-0\">\n<div class=\"dcr-1orj1f6\">\n<div data-format-theme=\"0\" data-format-design=\"11\" data-format-display=\"0\" class=\"dcr-ro6793\"><button data-testid=\"youtube-overlay-ueSdTPNM4Gg-1\" aria-label=\"Play video: Robert Jenrick gives Reform UK news conference \u2013 watch live\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-16xaxky\"><picture itemprop=\"contentUrl\"><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=620&dpr=2&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 980px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 1.25), (min-width: 980px) and (min-resolution: 120dpi)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=620&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 980px)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=700&dpr=2&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 740px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 1.25), (min-width: 740px) and (min-resolution: 120dpi)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=700&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 740px)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=620&dpr=2&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 660px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 1.25), (min-width: 660px) and (min-resolution: 120dpi)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=620&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 660px)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=645&dpr=2&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 480px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 1.25), (min-width: 480px) and (min-resolution: 120dpi)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=645&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 480px)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=465&dpr=2&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 320px) and (-webkit-min-device-pixel-ratio: 1.25), (min-width: 320px) and (min-resolution: 120dpi)\"\/><source srcset=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=465&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none\" media=\"(min-width: 320px)\"\/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" alt=\"Robert Jenrick gives Reform UK news conference \u2013 watch live\" src=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/media\/3378fff96a70611d73caad0c2d514777be841309\/0_0_5995_3371\/5995.jpg?width=465&dpr=1&s=none&crop=none\" height=\"259\" width=\"460\" class=\"dcr-18dqxt1\"\/><\/picture><\/button><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-174mzkf\"><span class=\"dcr-1hnminq\"><svg width=\"36\" height=\"23\" viewbox=\"0 0 36 23\"><path d=\"M3.2 0l-3.2 3.3v16.4l3.3 3.3h18.7v-23h-18.8m30.4 1l-8.6 8v5l8.6 8h2.4v-21h-2.4\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"dcr-1cipnsy\">Robert Jenrick gives Reform UK news conference \u2013 watch live<\/span><\/figcaption><\/div>\n<p><\/gu-island><\/figure>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82de2e8f088792503ed85e","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82de2e8f088792503ed85e"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82de2e8f088792503ed85e#block-6a82de2e8f088792503ed85e\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/p>\n<p>Updated at\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-08-17T10:19:44.000Z\" data-locale=\"en-gb\" title=\"Monday, 17 August 2026 at 11:19 British Summer Time\">11.19 BST<\/time><\/p>\n<\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container ad-slot-desktop dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82dc538f088792503ed83d\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\"\/>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">In this <a href=\"https:\/\/www.jrf.org.uk\/housing\/getting-homes-built-why-social-and-affordable-capacity-is-key\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">insightful briefing<\/a>, the Joseph Rowntree Foundation has explained some of the reasons behind the slump in housebuilding:<\/p>\n<blockquote data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-146y1tk\">\n<p><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 14\" style=\"fill:var(--block-quote-fill)\" class=\"dcr-1usi6vc\"><title>double quotation mark<\/title><path d=\"M5.255 0h4.75c-.572 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941H0C.792 9.104 2.44 4.53 5.255 0Zm11.061 0H21c-.506 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941h-8.686c.902-4.837 2.485-9.411 5.3-13.941Z\"\/><\/svg><em>Higher mortgage interest rates are constraining affordability for first-time buyers and home movers, reducing the number of transactions and playing a key role in slowing house price growth. The impacts of this are most pronounced in the south of England (including London), where higher loan to income ratio lending is required, and therefore the impact of higher rates is greatest.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>This has had an impact on the demand for housing generally, and on the demand for new-build homes specifically, and is reflected in estimates of the number of mortgages issued for new-build purchases \u2026<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>In addition to higher interest rates, the end of Help to Buy, which had previously targeted significant support to first-time buyers to purchase new homes, has also played a role in softening demand. These trends away from new-build homes appear to be continuing, despite an overall increase in transactions, including from first-time buyers, to levels similar to those prior to the spike in interest rates (JRF analysis of Nationwide transactions data), suggesting that more residential buyers are purchasing existing homes.<\/em><\/p>\n<p>At the same time as prices have softened, inflation in building costs has continued to increase. This has led some to argue that housebuilding is becoming unviable in an increasing number of places, as the cost of building a home outstrips the price that a developer can command in the market.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82dc538f088792503ed83d","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82dc538f088792503ed83d"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82dc538f088792503ed83d#block-6a82dc538f088792503ed83d\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82d6328f08bd3e82544da8\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\"\/>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The shadow housing secretary, James Cleverly, has told Sky News that the loosening of planning rules in England \u2013 that will allow more new homes to be built near stations \u2013 are a \u201csmokescreen to disguise the fact that they (Labour) have catastrophically failed to get stuff built\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Cleverly said \u201chousebuilding in the UK has collapsed\u201d in part because Labour made the process \u201cprohibitively expensive\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">He said: \u201cYou need building professionals, you need building materials, you need to be able to raise the capital.\u201d Cleverly failed to mention that housebuilding targets were repeatedly missed under previous Conservative administrations.<\/p>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82d6328f08bd3e82544da8","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82d6328f08bd3e82544da8"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82d6328f08bd3e82544da8#block-6a82d6328f08bd3e82544da8\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<article id=\"block-6a82cb648f08bd3e82544d54\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<div class=\"dcr-u1xpqf\">\n<div class=\"dcr-1dedliu\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/uploads\/2017\/10\/09\/Rowena-Mason,-L.png?width=300&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=c72e5e18d6a2e7699a08a9e7e42c9e3f\" alt=\"Rowena Mason\" class=\"dcr-wso613\"\/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-scesqk\">Rowena Mason<\/span><\/div>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Robert Jenrick, Reform\u2019s finance spokesperson, will detail the plans for \u00a320bn of cuts to disability benefits overall, as well as another \u00a321bn from stopping foreign nationals \u2013 including EU citizens with settled status \u2013 claiming almost any benefits, among other cuts.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The party said the plans were aimed at reducing the welfare bill by a quarter, with personal independence payments (Pip) replaced by another cash benefit that would be restricted to only the \u201cgravely ill and severely challenged\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">It said \u201clower level conditions\u201d would get support overseen by councils and mayors.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"f131d7b8-3f7d-4078-b1cb-96e5ad26e79f\" data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" data-spacefinder-type=\"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.ImageBlockElement\" class=\"dcr-d9bay7\"><figcaption data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-174mzkf\"><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><svg width=\"18\" height=\"13\" viewbox=\"0 0 18 13\"><path d=\"M18 3.5v8l-1.5 1.5h-15l-1.5-1.5v-8l1.5-1.5h3.5l2-2h4l2 2h3.5l1.5 1.5zm-9 7.5c1.9 0 3.5-1.6 3.5-3.5s-1.6-3.5-3.5-3.5-3.5 1.6-3.5 3.5 1.6 3.5 3.5 3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"dcr-1cipnsy\">Robert Jenrick will formally unveil Reform UK\u2019s welfare plans at a press conference this morning. <\/span> Photograph: Alishia Abodunde\/Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">In relation to foreign nationals, the plans extend <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/uk-news\/2025\/sep\/22\/what-are-nigel-farages-immigration-plans-and-do-his-sums-add-up\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">proposals set out by Nigel Farage<\/a> last year in which he claimed that banning migrants from claiming some benefits and scrapping indefinite leave to remain would save \u00a3234bn over several decades.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Jenrick claimed paying benefits to non-British people was \u201cplain immoral\u201d \u2013 even though many would have paid into the tax system through working. He also wrote in the Telegraph over the weekend that the amount spent on disability benefits was \u201cnot generosity \u2026 it is suicidal empathy\u201d.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">However, Jenrick was accused by campaigners of making life harder for disabled people and of not understanding that it would not save money. You can read more here:<\/p>\n<figure id=\"83c0c8ed-d91c-4ca9-b0b8-cf2ab0bbcd43\" data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" data-spacefinder-type=\"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.RichLinkBlockElement\" class=\"dcr-d9bay7\"><gu-island name=\"RichLinkComponent\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"idle\" props=\"{"richLinkIndex":7,"element":{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.RichLinkBlockElement","prefix":"Related: ","text":"Reform accused of targeting the most vulnerable with \u00a350bn benefit cut","elementId":"83c0c8ed-d91c-4ca9-b0b8-cf2ab0bbcd43","role":"inline","url":"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/society\/2026\/aug\/16\/jenrick-cuts-benefits-disabled-people-foreign-nationals"},"ajaxUrl":"https:\/\/api.nextgen.guardianapps.co.uk","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0}}\"\/><\/figure>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82cb648f08bd3e82544d54","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82cb648f08bd3e82544d54"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82cb648f08bd3e82544d54#block-6a82cb648f08bd3e82544d54\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container ad-slot-desktop dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82c6b68f08d002b566c546\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<h2 class=\"dcr-1pxv6ha\">Reform UK says it would ban foreign nationals from claiming most benefits<\/h2>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Reform UK has said foreign nationals would be banned from claiming almost all kinds of benefits in the UK if the party came into power following the next general election.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The affected welfare payments include housing benefit, pension credit, jobseeker\u2019s allowance, child benefit, free childcare and disability benefits. There would be only a small number of exemptions, including the War Widows Pension and Armed Forces compensation.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The ban would cover EU nationals with settled status in the UK, something that would require the party to renegotiate Britain\u2019s EU withdrawal agreement and potentially mean British expatriates in the bloc losing equivalent rights.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Reform claims the policy would save up to \u00a321bn a year by its fifth year, but <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/labour\" data-link-name=\"in body link\" data-component=\"auto-linked-tag\">Labour<\/a> highlights the fact that the \u201cvast majority\u201d of migrants have no access to benefits.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">A Labour spokesperson said:<\/p>\n<blockquote data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-146y1tk\">\n<p><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 14\" style=\"fill:var(--block-quote-fill)\" class=\"dcr-1usi6vc\"><title>double quotation mark<\/title><path d=\"M5.255 0h4.75c-.572 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941H0C.792 9.104 2.44 4.53 5.255 0Zm11.061 0H21c-.506 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941h-8.686c.902-4.837 2.485-9.411 5.3-13.941Z\"\/><\/svg><em>These plans would mean ripping up the UK\u2019s withdrawal agreement with the EU, plunging the UK back into years of Brexit renegotiations and stripping support from potentially millions of people who have lawfully lived, worked and paid taxes in Britain for years, and in many cases decades.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>That includes people with settled status who are part of our communities, raising families, working and contributing to our economy.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Robert Jenrick, Reform\u2019s finance spokesperson, is expected to outline \u00a350bn of cuts to benefits for disabled people and foreign nationals at a Westminster press conference today at 11am. Mothin Ali, the deputy leader of the Greens, said:<\/p>\n<blockquote data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-146y1tk\">\n<p><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 14\" style=\"fill:var(--block-quote-fill)\" class=\"dcr-1usi6vc\"><title>double quotation mark<\/title><path d=\"M5.255 0h4.75c-.572 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941H0C.792 9.104 2.44 4.53 5.255 0Zm11.061 0H21c-.506 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941h-8.686c.902-4.837 2.485-9.411 5.3-13.941Z\"\/><\/svg><em>Once again, the establishment parties are all trying to outdo each other when it comes to who can be the most xenophobic, who can punch down the hardest to the most vulnerable in our country, and who can cut the most support from disabled people. <\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>It is cowardly to take from the most defenceless when we should be taxing the super wealthy including those who are in the privileged position of accepting \u00a35m donations.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82c6b68f08d002b566c546","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82c6b68f08d002b566c546"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82c6b68f08d002b566c546#block-6a82c6b68f08d002b566c546\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82c10e8f08d002b566c526\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<h2 class=\"dcr-1pxv6ha\">Andy Burnham exchanged messages with Trump chief of staff impersonator – report<\/h2>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Andy Burnham exchanged messages with someone impersonating Donald Trump\u2019s chief of staff, according to reports. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.politico.eu\/newsletter\/london-playbook\/hostile-environment\/\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">According to Politico\u2019s Playbook<\/a>, the prime minister talked with someone posing as the White House chief of staff, Susie Wiles, before he became suspicious and concerns were raised about the incident.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Downing Street sources have downplayed the significance of the messages. But the incident prompted serious concern at the British embassy \u2013 so much so that officials raised their concerns with their counterparts in the US.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Last year, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.wsj.com\/politics\/policy\/federal-authorities-probe-effort-to-impersonate-white-house-chief-of-staff-65da0d59\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">The Wall Street Journal reported<\/a> that the FBI had launched an investigation into efforts to access Wiles\u2019 phone after an unknown person contacted prominent Republicans and business chiefs while pretending to be her.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">In March, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theatlantic.com\/politics\/2026\/03\/trump-phone-number\/686370\/\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">Atlantic reported<\/a> that the White House had been told Donald Trump\u2019s contact details had been offered for sale to people seeking influence. \u201cIt\u2019s honestly just wild,\u201d one of them told the outlet. \u201cI\u2019ve heard of CEOs offering money for his number. I\u2019ve heard of crypto bros offering cryptocurrency for it.\u201d<\/p>\n<figure id=\"597ede32-a72a-4fbd-91b7-f6fa073b8a98\" data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" data-spacefinder-type=\"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.ImageBlockElement\" class=\"dcr-d9bay7\"><figcaption data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-174mzkf\"><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><svg width=\"18\" height=\"13\" viewbox=\"0 0 18 13\"><path d=\"M18 3.5v8l-1.5 1.5h-15l-1.5-1.5v-8l1.5-1.5h3.5l2-2h4l2 2h3.5l1.5 1.5zm-9 7.5c1.9 0 3.5-1.6 3.5-3.5s-1.6-3.5-3.5-3.5-3.5 1.6-3.5 3.5 1.6 3.5 3.5 3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"dcr-1cipnsy\">Donald Trump praises his then campaign senior adviser Susie Wiles during an election night event at the Palm Beach Convention Center on 6 November 2024 in West Palm Beach, Florida.<\/span> Photograph: Chip Somodevilla\/Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82c10e8f08d002b566c526","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82c10e8f08d002b566c526"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82c10e8f08d002b566c526#block-6a82c10e8f08d002b566c526\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/p>\n<p>Updated at\u00a0<time datetime=\"2026-08-17T09:57:37.000Z\" data-locale=\"en-gb\" title=\"Monday, 17 August 2026 at 10:57 British Summer Time\">10.57 BST<\/time><\/p>\n<\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container ad-slot-desktop dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82c0798f08d002b566c523\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<div class=\"dcr-u1xpqf\">\n<div class=\"dcr-1dedliu\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/uploads\/2017\/10\/09\/Rowena-Mason,-L.png?width=300&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=c72e5e18d6a2e7699a08a9e7e42c9e3f\" alt=\"Rowena Mason\" class=\"dcr-wso613\"\/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"dcr-scesqk\">Rowena Mason<\/span><\/div>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The new national planning policy framework is aimed at providing clearer national policies for plan-making and decision-making, meaning that conflicting local policies will carry less weight when they are inconsistent with national policies.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Other changes will include:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Stronger support in principle for development, meaning a more explicit presumption in favour of building in sustainable locations.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Pubs will get <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/2026\/aug\/16\/angela-rayner-pubs-developers-houses-offices-planning-shakeup\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">protection from being turned into housing or offices<\/a> with developers having to prove there is no reasonable prospect of keeping a pub as a going concern, including evidence that it was marketed for sale for at least a year.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">A requirement for at least 40% of homes to be accessible on bigger developments and stronger protections for community facilities.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Stronger support for growth and infrastructure including support for AI growth zones and datacentres.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">You can read more on the planning changes in this story by the Guardian\u2019s Whitehall editor, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/profile\/rowena-mason\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">Rowena Mason<\/a>, here:<\/p>\n<figure id=\"a8c1ec92-8c2c-42f1-ab27-dfb6a5842559\" data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" data-spacefinder-type=\"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.RichLinkBlockElement\" class=\"dcr-d9bay7\"><gu-island name=\"RichLinkComponent\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"idle\" props=\"{"richLinkIndex":4,"element":{"_type":"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.RichLinkBlockElement","prefix":"Related: ","text":"Loosening of planning rules in England to allow more new homes near stations","elementId":"a8c1ec92-8c2c-42f1-ab27-dfb6a5842559","role":"inline","url":"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/2026\/aug\/17\/loosening-planning-rules-england-more-homes-train-stations-rayner"},"ajaxUrl":"https:\/\/api.nextgen.guardianapps.co.uk","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0}}\"\/><\/figure>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82c0798f08d002b566c523","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82c0798f08d002b566c523"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82c0798f08d002b566c523#block-6a82c0798f08d002b566c523\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<aside data-ad-slot=\"true\" class=\"ad-slot-container dcr-73ci1u\"\/>\n<article id=\"block-6a82b5d48f08d002b566c4e7\" class=\"block dcr-wo4zmo\">\n<header class=\"dcr-dm96fu\">\n<h2 class=\"dcr-1pxv6ha\">Housebuilding near train stations will be given ‘default yes’ under new planning changes<\/h2>\n<\/header>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Good morning and welcome to our live coverage of UK politics. Thousands more homes could be built within 10 minutes of transport hubs, including on green belt sites, as part of changes to government planning rules in England.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Under the government\u2019s new National Planning Policy Framework, which you can read in full <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/government\/consultations\/national-planning-policy-framework-proposed-reforms-and-other-changes-to-the-planning-system\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">here<\/a>, there will be default approval for homes being built around railway stations in a bid to increase housebuilding numbers. There will also be new minimum expectations for how much housing should be built in these areas.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Ministers have pledged to build 1.5m new homes by 2029 \u2013 but this target will fall short on the current trajectory, with the government about a quarter of the way to its target, two years into a five-year parliament. We have not been told what areas will be targeted in the new housebuilding drive, but the <a href=\"https:\/\/inews.co.uk\/news\/areas-rail-stations-thousands-homes-built-green-belt-4710652\" data-link-name=\"in body link\">i reports<\/a> that one key criteria is that nearby rail stations can run a minimum of four trains per hour into a large urban area.<\/p>\n<figure id=\"e94d2db8-3c53-4ef6-b191-451f79c2c627\" data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" data-spacefinder-type=\"model.dotcomrendering.pageElements.ImageBlockElement\" class=\"dcr-d9bay7\"><figcaption data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-174mzkf\"><span class=\"dcr-vyhg7z\"><svg width=\"18\" height=\"13\" viewbox=\"0 0 18 13\"><path d=\"M18 3.5v8l-1.5 1.5h-15l-1.5-1.5v-8l1.5-1.5h3.5l2-2h4l2 2h3.5l1.5 1.5zm-9 7.5c1.9 0 3.5-1.6 3.5-3.5s-1.6-3.5-3.5-3.5-3.5 1.6-3.5 3.5 1.6 3.5 3.5 3.5z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"dcr-1cipnsy\">Ministers hope the new policy will help the government achieve its target of 1.5m new properties being built by the end of this parliament.<\/span> Photograph: Christopher Thomond\/The Guardian<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">The plans risk a backlash from campaigners who want to see greenbelt areas protected.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Asked whether the \u201cdefault yes\u201d approach to planning approval would apply to greenbelt land, the housing minister, Matthew Pennycook, confirmed to Sky News this morning: \u201cFor well-connected stations outside of settlements, including the greenbelt, that default policy applies.\u201d<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Asked about concerns this may raise, he said:<\/p>\n<blockquote data-spacefinder-role=\"inline\" class=\"dcr-146y1tk\">\n<p><svg viewbox=\"0 0 22 14\" style=\"fill:var(--block-quote-fill)\" class=\"dcr-1usi6vc\"><title>double quotation mark<\/title><path d=\"M5.255 0h4.75c-.572 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941H0C.792 9.104 2.44 4.53 5.255 0Zm11.061 0H21c-.506 4.53-1.077 8.972-1.297 13.941h-8.686c.902-4.837 2.485-9.411 5.3-13.941Z\"\/><\/svg><em>It may cause some concern, but as I\u2019ve said many, many times, we know there is not enough land on brownfield land registers across the country, so previously developed land, to deliver the volumes of homes our country needs each year, at least those that are viable and in the right location.<\/em><\/p>\n<p><em>So, in exceptional circumstances, greenbelt land should be developed on. We\u2019ve got a sequential approach for how we judge the lower quality land to come forward in the first instance.<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">Reform UK\u2019s deputy leader Richard Tice said the changes, which come into effect from today, undermine the government\u2019s devolution agenda.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">\u201cFar from empowering local councils who actually know their communities, they strip power from the people who live there and hand it to Whitehall so ministers can ram through major housing developments while sidelining residents and ignoring the infrastructure that already can\u2019t cope,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n<p class=\"dcr-1s160rg\">James Cleverly, the shadow housing secretary, said: \u201cTo try to fix their own mess, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/labour\" data-link-name=\"in body link\" data-component=\"auto-linked-tag\">Labour<\/a> are planning a power grab, seizing control from local communities and forcing them to accept development in the wrong areas because Labour won\u2019t build in the right areas. Labour\u2019s planning power grab is exposing our green belt and countryside to unauthorised Traveller sites, and ministers are turning a blind eye.\u201d<\/p>\n<footer class=\"dcr-i9zbi8\"><gu-island name=\"ShareButton\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"visible\" props=\"{"size":"xsmall","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","hash":"block-6a82b5d48f08d002b566c4e7","queryParams":{"page":"with:block-6a82b5d48f08d002b566c4e7"},"webTitle":"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live","format":{"design":11,"display":0,"theme":0},"context":"LiveBlock"}\"><a href=\"mailto:?subject=Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live&body=https:\/\/www.theguardian.com\/politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates?CMP=share_btn_url&page=with%3Ablock-6a82b5d48f08d002b566c4e7#block-6a82b5d48f08d002b566c4e7\" type=\"button\" class=\"dcr-10ju04u\">Share<svg xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewbox=\"-3 -3 30 30\" focusable=\"false\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><path fill-rule=\"evenodd\" clip-rule=\"evenodd\" d=\"M19 16c1.675 0 3 1.35 3 3 0 1.675-1.325 3-3 3a2.97 2.97 0 0 1-2.975-3c0-.125 0-.275.025-.375L7.1 14.15a2.9 2.9 0 0 1-2.075.825C3.325 14.975 2 13.65 2 12a3.004 3.004 0 0 1 3.025-3.025c.775 0 1.5.35 2.075.875l8.95-4.475c-.025-.1-.025-.225-.025-.4A2.966 2.966 0 0 1 19 2c1.675 0 3 1.325 3 2.975C22 6.65 20.675 8 19 8c-.8 0-1.475-.325-2.05-.825l-8.975 4.45C8 11.7 8 11.825 8 12s0 .3-.025.375l8.975 4.45c.575-.5 1.25-.825 2.05-.825m0-12.8c-.975 0-1.8.775-1.8 1.775S18.025 6.8 19 6.8c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.825S20 3.2 19 3.2m0 17.6c1 0 1.825-.825 1.825-1.8 0-1-.825-1.8-1.825-1.8-.975 0-1.8.8-1.8 1.8 0 .975.825 1.8 1.8 1.8\"\/><\/svg><\/a><\/gu-island><\/footer>\n<\/article>\n<p><gu-island name=\"LiveBlogEpic\" priority=\"feature\" deferuntil=\"idle\" props=\"{"sectionId":"politics","shouldHideReaderRevenue":false,"tags":[{"id":"politics\/series\/politics-live-with-andrew-sparrow","type":"Series","title":"Politics live with Andrew Sparrow"},{"id":"politics\/politics","type":"Keyword","title":"Politics"},{"id":"politics\/planning","type":"Keyword","title":"Planning policy"},{"id":"uk\/uk","type":"Keyword","title":"UK news"},{"id":"politics\/andyburnham","type":"Keyword","title":"Andy Burnham"},{"id":"politics\/angela-rayner","type":"Keyword","title":"Angela Rayner"},{"id":"politics\/labour","type":"Keyword","title":"Labour"},{"id":"politics\/conservatives","type":"Keyword","title":"Conservatives"},{"id":"politics\/brexit-party","type":"Keyword","title":"Reform UK"},{"id":"type\/article","type":"Type","title":"Article"},{"id":"tone\/minutebyminute","type":"Tone","title":"Minute by minute"},{"id":"tone\/news","type":"Tone","title":"News"},{"id":"profile\/yohannes-lowe","type":"Contributor","title":"Yohannes Lowe"},{"id":"profile\/rowena-mason","type":"Contributor","title":"Rowena Mason","bylineImageUrl":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/static\/sys-images\/Guardian\/Pix\/contributor\/2015\/4\/1\/1427899384228\/Rowena-Mason.jpg?width=300&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=337eefa29417373508105079c7da59ed","bylineLargeImageUrl":"https:\/\/i.guim.co.uk\/img\/uploads\/2017\/10\/09\/Rowena-Mason,-L.png?width=300&quality=85&auto=format&fit=max&s=c72e5e18d6a2e7699a08a9e7e42c9e3f"},{"id":"tracking\/commissioningdesk\/uk-home-news","type":"Tracking","title":"UK Home News"},{"id":"tracking\/audience\/uk","type":"Tracking","title":"UK"}],"isPaidContent":false,"contributionsServiceUrl":"https:\/\/contributions.guardianapis.com","pageId":"politics\/live\/2026\/aug\/17\/housing-planning-changes-andy-burnham-angela-raynor-labour-conservatives-reform-latest-news-updates","keywordIds":"politics\/politics,politics\/planning,uk\/uk,politics\/andyburnham,politics\/angela-rayner,politics\/labour,politics\/conservatives,politics\/brexit-party","renderingTarget":"Web","isSensitive":false}\"\/><\/div>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Long-term benefit claimants will have to clean up high streets if they want to keep benefits, Jenrick says Robert Jenrick went on to say that long-term benefits claimants will be made to clean up their local high street and do charity work or face having their benefits taken away. He said as part of the […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":7040706,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[142238,142239,98364,97726,203134,182,101967,12501],"tags":[11283,203135,1976,1521,179983,4903,11381,6692,13460,17888],"dealstore":[],"offerexpiration":[],"class_list":["post-7040705","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-andy-burnham","category-angela-rayner","category-conservatives","category-labour","category-planning-policy","category-politics","category-reform-uk","category-uk-news","tag-benefits","tag-claimants","tag-clean","tag-high","tag-jenrick","tag-live","tag-longterm","tag-politics","tag-reform","tag-streets"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v26.4 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live | Politics - Som2ny Network<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/fivemor.com\/?p=7040705\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Jenrick says Reform would make long-term benefits claimants clean up high streets \u2013 UK politics live | Politics - Som2ny Network\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Long-term benefit claimants will have to clean up high streets if they want to keep benefits, Jenrick says Robert Jenrick went on to say that long-term benefits claimants will be made to clean up their local high street and do charity work or face having their benefits taken away. 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