A SUBURBAN taskforce, to solve problems of neglected neighbourhoods in London, is to be formed by Ealing Central and Acton MP Rupa Huq and colleagues in Parliament.

She had raised concerns about the decline of the suburbs in a Westminster debate last week and was tasked by the Minister for Local Growth, Jake Berry, to create a cross-department suburban group to address the issues raised.

Ms Huq praised the borough’s diverse community and history but expressed worries at what she saw as rising deprivation, common to much of suburban London.

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New Ealing North MP James Murray highlighted changes to the welfare system as a cause of shifts in suburban population in his seat.

Mr Berry agreed that more needed to be done to revive the suburbs and called for suggestions, which his department would consider.”

Ms Huq said: “The fact that my constituency has an above-average number of residents without English as a native tongue also means extra support services are needed which are not recognised in the blunt application of funding criteria.

“I’m pleased the minister is receptive to the task force idea and will set about making this happen.”