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Written question asked by Martin Wrigley (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 19 December 2024, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 7 January 2025. It was answered by Jim McMahon (Labour) on Friday, 10 January 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Local Government

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, for what reason the minimum population to become a Foundation Strategic Authority is different for (a) new unitary councils and (b) London boroughs.

Answer

The assumed population threshold for all levels of Strategic Authority is 1.5 million or above, but we accept that in some places, smaller authorities may be necessary.

As set out in the English Devolution White Paper, new unitary councils must be the right size to achieve efficiencies, improve capacity and withstand financial shocks. For most areas, this will mean creating councils with a population of 500,000 or more, but there may be exceptions to ensure new structures makes sense for an area, including for devolution, and decisions will be on a case-by-case-basis.

As individual councils, London boroughs will not be designated as Strategic Authorities. The Greater London Authority will be designated as the Strategic Authority for London.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
21425
Session
2024-26
Related items
Subjects
Local government
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk