New Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government

Today the government has announced that Michael Gove will become the new Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government, replacing Robert Jenrick. Mr Gove will also have responsibility for levelling-up.

Cllr Tim Oliver, Chairman of the County Councils Network, said:

“We welcome Michael Gove being announced as the new Secretary of State for Housing, Communities, and Local Government. There is a huge agenda ahead for both national and local government – and we look forward to continuing the great progress made on county devolution deals and securing ambitious new powers for our residents to help level-up their communities.

“Of course, devolution is one of many things that will be in the new Secretary of State’s in-tray. Challenges within local government finance, social care, and reforming the planning system are all significant issues that county and unitary authorities are set to face in the future, but knowing Mr Gove well as a Surrey MP, he is a champion of local authorities and their communities.

“I would like to wish Robert Jenrick well, who has been a strong advocate for local government, particularly in making the case for councils during the worst of the pandemic. We look forward to continuing this strong relationship with the new Local Government Secretary.”