The Government has put forward its new legislative programme, with a wide range of measures set out in the Queen’s Speech to Parliament including around planning, jobs and skills, health and care reform, environment, climate change and building safety.
The speech also referenced the Government’s levelling up agenda and promised plans for social care reform, but there were no announcements on letting councils hold virtual meetings.
Cllr James Jamieson, LGA Chairman, said: “The LGA and councils look forward to working closely with the Government to help deliver on its commitment to level up powers and invest in local areas across all parts of the country.
“With the right funding and freedoms, councils will play a leading role in the country’s recovery from the pandemic, driving improvements in public health, boosting local economic growth, reviving town and city centres, building more homes, improving our roads and equipping people with the skills they need to succeed so no-one is left behind.”
He said it was good that proposals on social care reform will be brought forward, but called on ministers to set out urgently a clear timeline and “concrete funding proposals” to put adult social care on a sustainable footing, for the benefit of people of all ages who rely on its services.
He added: “We are keen to work with the Government and other stakeholders on a cross-party basis to achieve this. We cannot keep kicking this can down the road.”