Held at least three times a year, Ask the Experts forms just one strand of Propertymark’s ongoing conversations with individual policymakers, ministerial teams and parliamentary committees. These sessions are attended by both newly elected politicians and those with a specific interest in the property sector allowing Westminster MPs and Peers to ask questions reflecting their constituent’s concerns, as well as specific policy and market-related issues they want to discuss.
As well as opening a dialogue between politicians and the sector, the conversations taking place during the Ask the Experts sessions enable us to shape future campaign work. For instance, if we know that an MP has a particular interest in an issue this allows the possibility of returning to them for future lobbying efforts.
Whilst Ask the Experts is primarily a chance for politicians to put questions to Propertymark, it is a reciprocal process too. This is important because it allows us to voice concerns raised by members. Recent sessions have proved a useful forum for raising unintended consequences around the end of the Stamp Duty Holiday, property standards, planning, leasehold property, short-term lets and the abolition of Section 21.
Lobbying in Scotland and Northern Ireland
These lobbying sessions are both gaining popularity and frequency. We have recently expanded Ask the Experts to Scotland and Northern Ireland, enabling us to raise issues raised by members in the devolved nations to representatives from the Scottish Government and Northern Ireland Executive.
Propertymark advocacy on stamp duty
Propertymark continues to outline our concerns to the UK Government on the dangers of ending Stamp Duty relief on 31 March 2021. We recently sent a briefing to members ahead of the debate on the issue, triggered by an e-petition.
Support our call for an extension to the Stamp Duty Holiday and help us put further pressure on policymakers. Writing to your local representative is an effective way for making your views known.
For help to write and structure an email, view our guidance on our website.
Covid-19 support
Since the coronavirus pandemic erupted, we have been working with government departments and politicians to ensure that our members get the support they need, and the property sector can operate safely.
For more information about the Ask the Experts sessions, watch our video featuring Propertymark’s Chief Policy Advisor Mark Hayward.
