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Written question asked by James McMurdock (Reform UK) on Wednesday, 18 December 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 6 January 2025. It was answered by Jim McMahon (Labour) on Thursday, 9 January 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Local Government Finance: Essex

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether she plans to clear Thurrock council's debt following the proposed merger of councils in Essex.

Answer

The Government has a framework to support councils in financial difficulty. In addition, the previous Secretary of State used statutory powers to intervene in a small number of councils failing their Best Value Duty partly associated with high levels of unsustainable debt. In the case of Thurrock, the Government will continue to work with the Best Value Commissioners and the Council to support Thurrock in its financial recovery.

The English Devolution White Paper published on 16 December announced that the Government will facilitate local government reorganisation for two-tier areas and for unitary councils where there is evidence of failure, or where their size or boundaries may be hindering their ability to deliver sustainable and high-quality public services.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
21102
Session
2024-26
Related items
Transferred
Yes
Subjects
Essex Local government Local government finance Reorganisation
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk