Member

The amendment proposed by the noble Lord is ambitious and full of positive intent, but, to be delivered effectively, as I think he identified, important groundwork will need to be undertaken to address public sector reform challenges. It is essential to engage the right stakeholders. I therefore invite the noble Lord to join a round table chaired by my right honourable friend the Secretary of State to discuss the Government’s plan for local public service reform. I would welcome the opportunity to discuss these matters further with both the noble Lord and the wider local government sector. With these points in mind, I hope noble Lords will feel able not to press their amendments.