Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Local Government Update

18 January 2022 · Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities

Proposed by Kemi Badenoch Con North West Essex

Local GovernmentWomen & Equalities

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

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At a glance

Key points

  • The Minister for Women and Equalities addresses governance issues at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council due to best value failure.
  • The Secretary of State considers exercising powers of intervention under the Local Government Act 1999 to appoint Commissioners for two years.
  • The Council is required to submit an Improvement Plan and representations by February 11th.

Issue summary

The Minister for Women and Equalities addresses the governance issues at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council, which has faced persistent challenges leading to significant best value failure.

Action requested

The Secretary of State is considering exercising powers of intervention under the Local Government Act 1999. This includes appointing Commissioners to oversee certain functions for two years and implementing an Improvement Plan by the Council. The process involves seeking representations from the Council by February 11th.

Key facts

  • Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council has had six different Leaders in six years and three Chief Executives over the past three years.
  • Grant Thornton’s Value for Money Governance Review, issued on December 3, 2021, identified 45 recommendations with three being Statutory Recommendations.
  • The proposed intervention package includes Commissioners overseeing governance and scrutiny functions, appointment of statutory officers, and ensuring effective children's services delivery.
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