Written question asked by Clive Betts (Labour) on Thursday, 19 December 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 8 January 2025 (named day). It was answered by Jim McMahon (Labour) on Wednesday, 8 January 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Unitary Councils: Powers

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what extra (a) powers and (b) responsibilities she plans to give unitary councils.

Answer: As set out in the English Devolution White Paper, councils need to be empowered to take the right decisions to drive growth and improve services. This is an ongoing process but among our immediate steps to end micromanagement is working with the sector to review requirements for local authorities to seek Secretaries’ of State consents for the use of their powers and removing these requirements unless absolutely necessary. This will apply to all local authorities as we receive proposals from all two-tier areas for reorganisation, as set out in the White Paper.

Secondary information

Type: Written question
Reference: 21265
Session: 2024-26
Related items: English Devolution White Paper: Power and Partnership: Foundations for Growth
Monday, 16 December 2024
Command papers
House of Commons
House of Lords
Subjects: Powers Unitary councils
Link: View this Written question on www.parliament.uk