Local Government Finance Settlement 2021-07-19
2021-07-19
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Direct Answer
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Context
The local government finance settlement was discussed, noting an increase in core spending power.
What plans does the Minister have to review the local government finance settlement given the recent increase from £49 billion to £51.3 billion?
The local government finance settlement this year was another excellent outcome for councils with an increase in core spending power from £49 billion to £51.3 billion—an increase of 4.6%. There are no plans to review this positive outcome, which was unopposed by the House.
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Assessment & feedback
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
Councils face challenges with short-term funding, prompting a question about the possibility of a longer-term settlement.
The problem for local councils is the patchwork of funding on a short-term basis. Could there be a three-year settlement that gives councils more time to plan despite less money?
First, I would not accept there are cuts for local government spending; this year saw a huge increase. The hon. Gentleman's council received a 4.1% funding increase and has £150 million in reserves. We provided capacity funding to councils for the levelling-up fund and community renewal fund to help them build good business cases and bids.
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Assessment & feedback
The answer does not directly address the request for a three-year settlement or longer-term planning flexibility.
First, I Would Not Accept
I Do Not Accept His Overall Point
Response accuracy