Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Local government update

17 December 2020 · Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

Proposed by Robert Jenrick Reform Newark

Local Government

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

View on Parliament.uk

At a glance

Key points

  • Minister Robert Jenrick addresses concerns about Liverpool City Council's potential non-compliance with best value duty.
  • Max Caller CBE is appointed to inspect the council's compliance in specified areas.
  • Report due by March 31, 2021.

Issue summary

The minister addresses concerns regarding potential non-compliance by Liverpool City Council with its best value duty due to ongoing police investigations into fraud, bribery, and misconduct.

Action requested

The minister has appointed Max Caller CBE to conduct an inspection of the council's compliance with its best value duty in relation to planning, highways, regeneration, and property management functions. The report is due by March 31, 2021.

Key facts

  • Merseyside Police have conducted investigations resulting in arrests for fraud, bribery, corruption, misconduct, and witness intimidation.
  • The council has taken steps to improve governance processes but concerns remain regarding compliance with the Best Value Duty under section 3 of the Local Government Act 1999.
  • Max Caller CBE is appointed to inspect the authority’s compliance with its best value duty by March 31, 2021.
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