Covid-19: Local Government Finance Debate
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Lord Bishop of St Albans
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Covid-19: Local Government Finance
Lord Bishop of St Albans Excerpts(4 years, 4 months ago)
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Lord Greenhalgh
I know of my noble friend’s love of the game of cricket. I am sure that we can take that up with the Ministers responsible.
The Lord Bishop of St Albans [V]
My Lords, it is not only these five councils who are facing severe challenges. Luton Borough Council in my own diocese, which is one of the most innovative and forward-looking councils in the country, owns Luton Airport. Due to the lockdown, the collapse of this income stream is resulting in a massive hole in the council’s revenue. What conversations have Her Majesty’s Government had with Luton Borough Council? What are the Government intending to do to support Luton?
Lord Greenhalgh
I agree with the right reverend Prelate. A number of local authorities will feel impacts as a result of Covid-19 pressures, particularly Luton Airport. This was raised with me by officials who have been dealing with the local council. As I mentioned before, if there are specific councils that face unique problems, as in the case of Luton Airport, they should contact officials. These will be dealt with on an individual, case-by-case basis.