Member

For that reason, although I recognise the rationale behind this order and do not dispute the need to ensure that Section 24 remains workable, I hope the Minister will acknowledge that this episode exposes wider weaknesses in this Government’s approach. If Ministers are to continue pursuing large-scale structural change in local government, they must do so with greater care, greater transparency and greater respect for the practical realities facing local authorities on the ground. I look forward to hearing the Minister’s response.