Mike Penning (Hemel Hempstead) (Con): I was pleased to hear the Leader of the House confirm my constituents’ concerns about the democratic deficit in
respect of quangos and regional assemblies. With that in mind, may we have an urgent debate about how the East of England Development Agency can propose thousands of new homes in my constituency when my council has no right to oppose such development? As we do not have enough water for our existing houses, how can more houses be imposed on us? Mr. Straw: I note the hon. Gentleman’s concern about water. Indeed, an interesting report on that issue came out today. I hope that he will have an opportunity to raise those matters on the Adjournment or in Westminster Hall. | 
