Member

I turn to safeguards for local government. Local government members should be able to perform their duties without fear for their own safety or that of their families. Intimidation, harassment and abuse have no place in our democracy, and I thank the hon. Member for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner (David Simmonds) for raising this important issue in Committee. The Government agree that making a change to ensure the safety of local government members is timely and necessary. We have listened and responded.