English councils funding settlement - Florence Eshalomi, HCLG Chair, comments

• Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee

Chair's comment

Florence Eshalomi, Chair of the Housing, Communities and Local Government Committee, said: “The Government’s announcement today is welcome, but the reality is that many councils in England will continue to be under huge strain, facing a range of severe service pressures and with the finances for many councils at breaking point.

“The boost to council funding to help tackle homelessness is welcome but this will only act as sticking plaster until we deal with the housing crisis by building more homes, including social homes.

“It’s welcome the Government is taking a more fundamental look at local government funding by launching an assessment of councils’ needs and resources. As a Committee, we will be keen to explore these issues in our inquiry on the funding and sustainability of local government finance in the New Year.”

Last week, the HCLG Committee launched an inquiry looking at whether the local government finance system in England is fit for purpose.

The HCLG Committee also has two short inquiries underway, examining the topics of children in temporary accommodation and rough sleeping.

Further information

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Image: House of Commons / Laurie Noble