Cllr James Jamieson, Chairman of the LGA, responds to the announcement that Boris Johnson is to become the next Prime Minister.
“I would like to congratulate Boris Johnson on becoming our next Prime Minister and look forward to meeting and working with him and his government to help deliver his domestic agenda, and on the key issues and opportunities which lie ahead.
“Councils are uniquely placed to support and build strong communities, lead the delivery of joined up services that can help to change lives for the better and build strong local economies that support your national economic priorities.
“From building more homes and supporting families, giving young people the best start in life through to supporting people through older life and ensuring we have a skilled workforce that supports UK businesses to compete on the global stage, councils are key to delivering his priorities.
“Through devolution, councils can empower their communities and at the same time, ensure funding is used efficiently to deliver real change. This is the perfect opportunity to bring central and local government closer together to realise the opportunities devolution can offer.
“The next Queen’s Speech is a real opportunity for change by including new English Devolution and Local Government Finance Bills.
“With the right funding and powers underpinned by local accountability and sector led improvement, councils can continue to lead local areas, improve residents’ lives, reduce demand for public services and save money for the taxpayer.”
Councils in England face an overall funding gap of £8 billion by 2025. The LGA’s #CouncilsCan campaign calls on the next Prime Minister to ensure the forthcoming Spending Review secures the future of vital local services and the long-term financial sustainability of councils.