Labour’s Long-term Funding Plans for Local Councils Revealed by Angela Rayner
Addressing Tory Chaos
Angela Rayner is poised to introduce comprehensive funding plans aimed at supporting local councils in overcoming the aftermath of Conservative turmoil. Speaking at the Labour Local Government Conference in Warwick, the Deputy Labour Leader emphasizes that the most significant barrier hindering the resolution of the crisis in local government is attributed to the Conservative Party.
Pledge for Sustainable Funding
In her capacity as Shadow Levelling Up Secretary, Rayner asserts, “The Tories have left working people paying more for less, with councils left picking up the pieces.” She acknowledges the challenges faced by local government leaders striving to maintain essential services amidst a backdrop of Tory economic mismanagement, intensified by a surge in demand amid the prevailing cost-of-living crisis.
Rebuilding Local Government
Rayner commits Labour to laying the groundwork for local government by instituting enduring funding settlements for councils experiencing financial strain. While emphasizing the arduous nature of the task ahead, she underscores that resolving the crises confronting numerous localities will necessitate a sustained collaborative effort rather than quick-fix solutions.
Empowering Local Leaders
Under the party’s proposed “Take Back Control Act,” a framework will be established to empower local leaders to assume authority over economic policies and seek jurisdiction over devolved powers from other regions. Additionally, the plan entails delegating responsibilities concerning housing, planning, adult skills, and transportation to existing metro mayors and combined authorities.
Ending the Begging Bowl System
Rayner vows to abolish the current practice wherein councils are compelled to submit resource-intensive, fragmented proposals to secure ringfenced funding for local initiatives. With the council tax burden expected to double compared to the Labour administration’s previous tenure, she unequivocally attributes any escalation in council tax to the incumbent Conservative government.
Future Outlook
In anticipation of forthcoming challenges, Rayner underlines, “There is no magic wand, but instead a long, hard slog to work in partnership with councils to rebuild from the ground up.” She remains cognizant of the formidable task that awaits the party in addressing the multifaceted crises afflicting local government, underscoring the indispensability of concerted, sustained efforts in collaboration with councils.
