Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to the Answer of 30 January 2025 to Question HL4145, on Local Government: Elections, if he will make it his policy to ensure that plans for local government reorganisation to (a) replace the two-tier system of local government and (b) reorganise existing unitary councils are put out for public consultation in line with the (i) Gunning Principles and (ii) Cabinet Office’s “Consultation principles: guidance”.

As set out in statutory invitation issued on 5 February, we expect local leaders to engage their Members of Parliament, and to ensure there is wide engagement with local partners and stakeholders, residents, workforce and their representatives, and businesses in working up their proposals. The engagement that is undertaken should both inform the development of robust proposals and should also build a shared understanding of the improvements areas expect to deliver through reorganisation.

The views of other public sector providers will be crucial to understanding the best way to structure local government in an area. This will include the relevant Mayor, Integrated Care Board, Police (Fire) and Crime Commissioner, Fire and Rescue Authority, local Higher Education and Further Education providers, National Park Authorities, and the voluntary and third sector.

Once a proposal has been submitted it will be for the Government to decide on taking a proposal forward and to consult as required by statute.