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“We have been pressing for a pragmatic solution to the backlog in local audit so today’s announcement is positive. We are also pleased the Government has acted on our calls for backstop dates to avoid pre-election periods.

Local government stands ready to work with national government on their detailed delivery plans to ensure practical solutions to these long-standing problems are found.

The infographics reveal that, while local government is the largest single biggest funder of culture, this investment remains under threat due to the multitude of funding steams as well as the system for funding bids.

Hotels have already begun to close to Afghan households across the country and - as we feared - councils are already seeing families presenting to them as homeless as a result.

Cllr Louise Gittins, Chair of the Local Government Association said: “The unrest and violence we have seen around the country has been deplorable. As always, councils are striving to unite communities and not divide them and are leading local responses to protect communities from those who seek to sow division. “While it has been encouraging to see the community spirit and response in the wake of these awful incidents, with residents and businesses helping to clean up areas and repair damage, we know that it will take much longer to resolve community tensions. "The LGA is supporting councils

Sally Burlington, Director of Policy and Deputy Chief Executive, will leave the Local Government Association (LGA) later this year.

“Councils want to turn the tide of rising homelessness. A genuine cross-departmental approach to tackling this crisis, as part of a long-term government strategy, is key with councils given the powers and resources needed to address the national shortage of affordable housing.”

“It is with relief that we have not so far seen a repeat of the extremist far-right violence, racism and thuggish behaviour that has brought fear and distress to so many people and blighted communities up and down the country.

Alastair Campbell, currently Interim Director of Communications and Engagement at Southwark Council, has been appointed as Interim Director of Communications and will join the LGA from 2 September for six months.

“It is encouraging that the new Minister has signalled he is open to looking again at flexibility around virtual attendance at council meetings – something the LGA has been calling for since 2021."