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

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what assessment she has made of the potential impact of equal pay claims on the financial viability of councils.

Local authorities are independent employers and responsible for complying with employment legislation, so the management of equal pay claims is primarily a matter for councils.

The government does however fund the Local Government Association to run a Sector Support Programme, which includes providing support and guidance for councils on equal pay issues.

As always, the Department stands ready to speak to any council that has concerns about its finances, including as a result of equal pay claims, and we will treat all discussions in confidence, with respect and determination to find a solution together.