VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Unitary Councils: Cambridgeshire

Asked by Ben Obese-JectyConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 19 June 2025UIN 60180

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what consideration she will give to the findings of district councils public consultations in determining the structure of new unitary councils in Cambridgeshire.

Answered by Jim McMahon

On 5 February 2025 councils in Cambridgeshire and Peterborough were invited to submit proposals for unitary local government by 28 November 2025. Once a proposal has been submitted it will be for the government to decide on taking a proposal forward and to consult as required by statute. The exact timings and detail will depend on the proposals received and the decision taken on which proposal, if any, to implement.

Decisions on the most appropriate option for each area will be judgements in the round, having regard to the statutory guidance and the available evidence. One of the criteria is that proposals should show how councils in the area have sought to work together in coming to a view that meets local needs and is informed by local views. We expect there to be wide engagement with local partners and stakeholders, residents, workforce and their representatives, and businesses on a proposal. The engagement that is undertaken should both inform the development of robust proposals and should also build a shared understanding of the improvements expected through reorganisation.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim