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Local Government Best Value
09 July 2025
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
At a Glance
Issue Summary
The statement discusses the steps taken by the government to support Warrington Borough Council, London Borough of Tower Hamlets, and Slough Borough Council in recovering and reforming their governance.
Action Requested
I have issued Directions under section 15(5) and 15(6) of the Local Government Act 1999 for Warrington to implement an intervention package until July 31, 2030. I appointed four Ministerial Envoys with specific roles to support recovery and reform, and will review the effectiveness regularly.
Key Facts
- On May 8, I informed the House that Warrington Borough Council is not complying with its Best Value Duty.
- The intervention package for Warrington comprises specific actions and appointments of four Ministerial Envoys until July 31, 2030.
- Sir Stephen Houghton is appointed as a Ministerial Envoy; Harry Catherall, Carolyn Williamson, and Phil Brookes are appointed with powers to exercise functions.
- The London Borough of Tower Hamlets began statutory intervention on January 22, focused on improvement work led by Ministerial Envoys.
- Slough has been in intervention since December 2021; the intervention was extended for two more years in November 2024.
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Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy