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Written question asked by Al Pinkerton (Liberal Democrat) on Wednesday, 12 February 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 24 February 2025. It was answered by Jim McMahon (Labour) on Monday, 24 February 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Unitary Councils

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps her Department is taking to ensure that people affected by the proposed changes in the English Devolution White Paper, published on 16 December 2024, are consulted on the proposed implementation of unitary authorities.

Answer

We expect local leaders to engage their Members of Parliament, and to ensure there is wide engagement with local partners and stakeholders, residents, workforce and their representatives, and businesses in working up their proposals. The engagement that is undertaken should both inform the development of robust proposals and should also build a shared understanding of the improvements you expect to deliver through reorganisation. The views of other public sector providers will be crucial to understanding the best way to structure local government in an area. This will include the relevant Mayor, Integrated Care Board, Police (Fire) and Crime Commissioner, Fire and Rescue Authority, local Higher Education and Further Education providers, National Park Authorities, and the voluntary and third sector.

Once a proposal has been submitted it will be for the Government to decide on taking a proposal forward and to consult as required by statute.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
31301
Session
2024-26
Related items
Subjects
Local government Public consultation Reorganisation Unitary councils
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk