Shadow chancellor to address Tory conference as he claims slashing red tape could cut cost of new houses...

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Published: 2026-10-05T07:22:28.131Z • Permanent link

Andrew Griffith, the newly appointed Shadow Chancellor, is set to address the Conservative Party conference today, where he will outline plans to slash red tape and cut the cost of new houses. Griffith's speech comes as Reform UK, a breakaway faction from the Tories, accuses the party of copying policies they announced weeks and months ago. The controversy highlights the internal power struggle within the Conservative Party, with Griffith's office pushing for a more radical overhaul of the regulatory framework.

Griffith's speech is expected to focus on the need to simplify planning rules and reduce bureaucracy, with the aim of increasing the supply of new homes and driving down prices. The Shadow Chancellor's office has been working closely with industry groups and local authorities to develop a new approach to planning, one that prioritizes flexibility and community engagement. Meanwhile, Reform UK has accused the party of abandoning its manifesto commitments and instead adopting a watered-down version of its policies.

Griffith's plans have already been endorsed by some Tory MPs, who see the potential for a more streamlined regulatory framework to boost economic growth. However, others have expressed concerns that the proposed changes could lead to a loss of community control and increased pressure on local services. As the debate rages on, one thing is clear: the future of planning policy in the UK hangs in the balance.

The proposed overhaul of planning regulations has significant implications for companies involved in the construction industry, such as Barratt Developments and Persimmon. These firms will need to adapt to new rules and guidelines, which could impact their bottom line and competitiveness. Research communities and think tanks, such as the Institute for Fiscal Studies and the Centre for Policy Studies, will also be watching the developments closely, as they seek to understand the potential impact on housing affordability and economic growth. The UK's housing market is already under pressure, with prices rising faster than wages in many parts of the country. Any changes to planning regulations could exacerbate this trend, leading to increased demand for affordable housing and further strain on local services.

The proposed changes also raise questions about the role of local authorities in the planning process. As the government seeks to simplify regulations and reduce bureaucracy, some fear that community control and engagement will be compromised. This could have significant implications for local communities, which have long been at the heart of the planning process. For example, the London Borough of Lewisham has been at the forefront of efforts to promote community-led planning initiatives, which prioritize local needs and priorities. Any changes to the planning framework could undermine these efforts and lead to a more top-down approach to development.

The controversy surrounding Griffith's speech and Reform UK's accusations highlights the ongoing power struggle within the Conservative Party. The party has long been divided on issues of regulation and policy, with some MPs pushing for a more liberal approach and others advocating for greater control. The issue of planning regulations is just one part of a broader debate about the role of government in the economy.