Despite the shorter week due to the early May bank holiday, it’s been a full and focused few days in Government – particularly centred on the financial sustainability of local councils. After years of inadequate funding, many councils are under immense strain. My role now is to tackle that legacy head-on and build a fairer, more resilient model that gives local authorities the certainty they need to deliver for their communities.
On Tuesday, I was in London for meetings with local leaders and officials, ahead of the publication of Government guidance to areas facing financial challenges.
On Wednesday, I gave evidence to the Housing, Communities and Local Government Select Committee, setting out our plans for a sustainable, long-term approach to local government funding – one that moves us beyond sticking-plaster solutions.
That same day, I responded in the House to an Adjournment Debate on Havering Borough Council and its place in Essex devolution. It was a chance to reflect on a theme that resonates deeply with people up and down the country: pride in place and the value of local identity. One of my first acts in Government was to bring every English county flag to Parliament Square and now outside the Department – to show that identity and belonging are central to how we shape public life.
I ended the week back in Manchester, joining a brilliant VE Day celebration at the Civic. Before that, I caught up with Bev Craig, Leader of Manchester City Council and Chair of LGA Labour, to reflect on the local elections and our shared mission to build a stronger, more accountable local government.
Jim McMahon OBE MP 