Local Government Reorganisation

Alex Baker Excerpts

Monday 7th September 2026 Commons Chamber

[Alex Baker (Aldershot) (Lab)]

It is never too late to make sure that a decision is the right one, but I am pleased to hear the Secretary of State recognise the challenge that this pause presents to local councils such as my district council, Rushmoor borough council, which has worked so hard to deliver local government reorganisation in our community. However, it also has an impact on businesses, schools and community organisations across Aldershot and Farnborough, which have spent months committing time and energy to preparing for this reorganisation on the basis of the Government’s decision. Does the Secretary of State recognise how frustrating it is for them to have that certainty pulled away, and has the Department considered the cost and disruption that this decision will cause beyond local councils themselves?

[Angela Rayner]

I thank my hon. Friend and members of her local community for engaging in local government reform. I reiterate from the Dispatch Box my commitment to that, but we need to make sure that we get it right. The example that I can give, especially to the young people in her area, is that if they feel that they do not have all the information, it is okay to say so and to take that forward in the correct way. That is the right and correct way forward. We are committed to providing transitional funding, and I urge my hon. Friend and her local leaders to be in touch with my Department so that we can take a look at this issue.