House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Local Government Best Value
17 March 2026 · Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
Proposed by Steve Reed Lab Croydon North
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The minister issued revised Directions under section 15(5) and 15(6) of the Local Government Act 1999 concerning Tower Hamlets Council.
- The council is required to improve governance and leadership due to its failure to comply with the Best Value Duty.
- Additional finance expertise will be provided to the Envoy team to assist in this process.
Issue summary
The minister is addressing the ongoing issues at the Tower Hamlets Council regarding their failure to comply with the Best Value Duty and the need for stronger intervention measures.
Action requested
The minister has issued revised Directions under section 15(5) and 15(6) of the Local Government Act 1999, requiring the Council to take specific actions to improve governance and leadership. Additional finance expertise will be added to the Envoy team to support this process.
Key facts
- The minister was concerned about Tower Hamlets Council's progress after a year of statutory intervention.
- Five responses were received regarding proposed changes to the intervention package.
- Revised Directions require the Council to make significant improvements in governance, leadership, and financial management.
- Envoys will exercise specific functions held in reserve to ensure compliance with Best Value Duty.
- An additional Assistant Envoy with finance expertise will be appointed.
- The next report on progress is due in summer.