Commons Sense

Hansard-based summaries and metrics

<-- Back to proposed bills

Local government update

17 December 2020

Proposing MP
Robert Jenrick Reform
Newark
Type
Written Ministerial Statement
Department
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
View on Parliament.uk -->

At a Glance

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.
▸ Assessment & feedback
Summary accuracy