They say a week is a long time in politics, and that is never truer than during a reshuffle.
The Prime Minister rightly identified that this represents a new phase for our Labour Government, but its mission to renew our country, after 14 years of neglect by the Conservatives left it on its knees, has not changed.
The whole Labour local government family pays tribute to Angela Rayner for her tireless work at the heart of government. She represents the very best of what a Labour Government can do for working people and has funnelled that into service for our communities.
We have also greatly enjoyed working with Jim McMahon, himself a former Leader of the LGA Labour Group. It has been great to finally engage with a minister who truly understands local government and believes in the power of councillors.
It is positive to see Baroness Sharon Taylor remain in her role, one to which we know she is dedicated.
Looking to the future, we are pleased to welcome Steve Reed as the new Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government.
As a former Leader of Lambeth Council and former Deputy Leader of the LGA Labour Group, he understands the mechanics of local government, and we are looking forward to continued engagement with the ministry.
We also welcome Alison McGovern, Miatta Fahnbulleh and Samantha Dixon, and look forward to discussions on how local government can provide innovative solutions, as well as be a key delivery arm for the Government.
Onwards to party conference, where I am looking forward to seeing many of you during the week – at our rally for local government, and many other LGA and Association of Labour Councillors’ events, to mark the progress we are making for our country.
For more information about the LGA’s political groups, see the LGA website.