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 June 2026, to Question 11665, on Local Government: Reorganisation, whether the larger geographical size of the new unitaries will be a material consideration in whether or not (a) city or (b) borough status is granted to the new unitary area; and whether the previous lack of city or borough status of any predecessor councils within part of the wider unitary area will be a material consideration by the Privy Council and the Secretary of State.

We recognise the pride, history and identity that sits behind our cities and counties, which is why we will work with areas to make sure any existing city status and ceremonial rights are preserved following reorganisation, regardless of the size of new unitary councils. City status and ceremonial matters play a valuable role for pride of place in our local communities.

These issues have been raised by local areas and Members of Parliament for some time, and we recognise that this is an important programme of work. Subject to any final decisions taken on reorganisation, Government will work with places to protect their city status, by reviewing all available options and relevant precedents, including bringing new legislation forward where it is necessary to do so, and likewise, for any ceremonial matters currently held by councils that would be abolished.

The grant of city status is a matter of royal prerogative and is usually made through periodic competitions. The most recent competition took place in 2022 to mark Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee, and there are currently no plans for a further competition.