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Written question asked by Kevin Hollinrake (Conservative) on Friday, 5 December 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 9 December 2025. It was answered by Alison McGovern (Labour) on Tuesday, 16 December 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.


Local Government: Freedom of Association and Freedom of Expression

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, if he will make it his policy to issue guidance to councils on protecting political free speech and freedom of association.

Answer

Local authorities are independent of central government. They must uphold their obligations under the Human Rights Act 1998 to ensure their actions are compatible with rights to freedom of expression and freedom of association. The Equality and Human Rights Commission provides guidance on these specific matters.


Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
97527
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Freedom of expression Local government Freedom of association
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk