Legally require all councillors & mayors to speak proficient English

11,633
signatures
closedMinistry of Housing, Communities & Local GovernmentOpened 27 February 2026Closed 27 August 2026

Background

There’s no legal requirement for councillors/mayors to be proficient in English. This can lead to communication barriers in meetings and with constituents. This petition calls for mandatory English fluency for these roles.

Additional details

In recent years, viral media clips have raised concerns about English proficiency among some ceremonial mayors and councillors. Discussions question if limited fluency impairs public communication. These cases support calls for mandatory English proficiency and English-only official meetings for clarity and accessibility.

Where it’s popular

Constituencies with the most signatures on this petition.

Source: UK Government & Parliament Petitions service. Petition ID: 758713.