Prime Minister's question asked in the House of Commons, by Anne Snelgrove (Labour). It was answered on Wednesday, 14 December 2005 on behalf of the Prime Minister.

Engagements

Question: Will my right hon. Friend join me in congratulating Swindon borough council on achieving a two-star ranking? Does he recognise the significant contribution made to its success by Government remedial help, particularly from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister? We thank the ODPM for its help over the past few years. Will my right hon. Friend assure me that that help will be available to struggling councils throughout the country in future?

Answer: I am happy to pay tribute to the Department of my right hon. Friend the Deputy Prime Minister, and to Swindon borough council for the excellent work that it is doing. It shows that with the right level of investment and funding, and partnership between local and central Government, a real difference can be made to the quality of life of local communities.

Secondary information