VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Local Government: Reorganisation

Asked by Paul HolmesConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 13 July 2026UIN 15741

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether he plans to approve new unitary council structures where new unitary council wards cross and split existing (a) district wards, (b) unitary wards and (c) county divisions.

Answered by Alison McGovern

The Secretary of State's consideration of local government reorganisation proposals is based on information provided by councils, representations received through the statutory consultation process, and official advice and analysis drawing on published sources and sector data. Decisions on individual proposals are taken on their merits, having regard to all relevant information available.

The Government has been clear that local suggestions may be built from existing district wards, unitary wards, county divisions, parish boundaries or parish wards, including a mix of these electoral areas where appropriate.

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