Written question asked by James Cleverly (Conservative) on Friday, 10 April 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 14 April 2026. It was answered by Miatta Fahnbulleh (Labour) on Monday, 20 April 2026 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Combined Authorities: Public Appointments

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with reference to the press release, New amendments will create safer streets, champion culture, and strengthen local accountability under the English Devolution Bill, of 18 March 2026, whether the ten commissioners that Mayors can recruit will (a) be politically restricted and (b) have a salary cap; and whether they must be appointed by open and fair competition.

Answer: The government published on 16 April statutory guidance on appointing mayoral commissioners and setting/reporting allowances in combined authorities and county combined authorities. This sets out information about political restrictions, remuneration and how they should be recruited through fair and open competition.

Secondary information