As the newly elected Leader of the LGA’s Labour Group, I’m thrilled to be writing under a Labour Government!
It is the product of a lot of hard work and a tremendous commitment by Labour councillors, and we should be proud of the part we played.
Councillors were crucial to securing a Labour win, and will be vital to supporting the Government through delivery.
One of the Government’s core aims is to return our country to mission-driven government. This will allow it to focus on areas that matter most to people, and to ensure we build a cohesive and productive set of changes.
The five core missions are kick-starting economic growth, making Britain a clean energy superpower, taking back our streets, breaking down barriers to opportunity, and building an NHS fit for the future.
These all run through local government. We are the sector delivering on these promises, and I know we will all work hard to do so.
The country has spoken for change, but not just in policies. They want a return to the politics of public service, where the Government works with, and for, communities.
Therefore, resetting the relationship between local and national government is key.
Angela Rayner MP, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, has been clear that Westminster has hoarded power for too long and, therefore, held back communities from achieving their goals.
“We all share the ambition of rebuilding our country so it works for everyone, so productive relationships are crucial.”
The Government will devolve powers (including over transport and housing), move away from a deal-based approach to devolution, and work in partnership with local leaders to implement growth plans.
Crucially, it has committed to longer-term funding settlements, allowing councils to plan for, and invest in, the future.
We now have a serious government with renewed energy and a desire to work productively with local government. I look forward to working with it.