Local Government Reorganisation
Debate between Adam Jogee and Alison McGovern(2 days, 22 hours ago)
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Alison McGovern
I am pleased to hear that the right hon. Gentleman has been in touch with local authority leaders. They will have heard what he has said, and I am sure that they can take his views into consideration when they respond to our letter.
Adam Jogee (Newcastle-under-Lyme) (Lab)
In Newcastle-under-Lyme and in Staffordshire, there is real discussion about what the future may look like. It is clear that some things have to change, because councils are not operating as effectively as they might. That said, can the Minister assure me that the views of local people, and the history, traditions and identity of communities, will be the driving force behind any discussion about what the future may look like?
Alison McGovern
Of course those things are taken into consideration. We have set out some criteria by which the decisions on reorganisation are taken, and I refer my hon. Friend to those, but effective local government is built out of a strong sense of community. I am sure that will be reflected in his constituency, as elsewhere.
Oral Answers to Questions
Debate between Adam Jogee and Alison McGovern(1 year ago)
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The Minister for Employment (Alison McGovern)
We still have more than 800,000 vacancies in this economy, and businesses are crying out for staff. That is why, through our reform programme, we are determined that the DWP will serve business better. I look forward to working with Members across the House to make that happen.
Adam Jogee (Newcastle-under-Lyme) (Lab)