Briefings and responses

The Domestic Abuse Bill introduces important measures which will help to raise awareness of domestic abuse and will go some way to providing additional support to domestic abuse victims, whilst also helping to challenge perpetrator’s behaviour. It is a positive step in the right direction.

Councils have a proud history of welcoming new arrivals, stepping forward at times of crisis to offer homes and support so families and individuals can build new lives in the UK. The Bill adds extra complexity to areas seeking to manage community cohesion or community tensions as a result of asylum and resettlement accommodation. 

Human trafficking and modern slavery are heinous crimes. Supporting councils to tackle modern slavery is a key priority area for the LGA.

Local government would welcome discussions with Government on potential impacts on councils of the Illegal Migration Bill. The Second Reading of the Bill will take place in the House of Lords on 10 May 2023.

It is helpful to acknowledge the multi-agency nature of child protection work. By including this as one of the pillars, we hope to see more done to hold partners to account, for example ensuring that children and families can access appropriate mental health services where this is key to keeping them safe and well. There is no reference within these pillars to the importance of properly resourcing the system.

Local government would welcome discussions with Government on potential impacts on councils of the Illegal Migration Bill. A Committee of the Whole House will take place in the House of Lords from 24 May 2023.

There is consensus that a hotel is not the right place for children to be living. The LGA agrees with the Government in wanting the National Transfer Scheme (NTS) to work well in ensuring unaccompanied children.

Local government would welcome discussions with Government on potential impacts on councils of the Illegal Migration Bill. The Third Reading of the Bill will take place in the House of Lords on 10 July 2023. 

Local government would welcome discussions with Government on potential impacts on councils of the Illegal Migration Bill. Consideration of Lords amendments will take place in the House of Commons from 12 July 2023. 

The Home Office is consulting with councils on a cap on safe and legal routes to the UK with a deadline of 15 December. Please read some views from the LGA to inform responses.