Javid sets straight his views of local government

Sajid Javid has readdressed his views of local government, saying he ‘loves’ what they do for the country.

Following the communities secretary’s speech to the Local Government Association (LGA), in which he criticised local government on a number of issues including housing inequalities and local plans, Javid rectified his views, praising local government for what it does for the country.

He began his speech by mentioning how critics had responded to his first speech before telling the local government family that he is ‘proud to represent you, defend you, and speak for you at the Cabinet table’.

Javid praised local government for its efforts, saying: “Every day of the week, up and down the country, we see amazing work being done by councillors, officials and other employees. And I don’t just mean the great and the good gathered in this room, or the senior figures who attend big conferences. I’m talking about the people out there on the front line delivering the services we all rely on. From street cleaners to social workers. Without them, without their skill and dedication, this country simply couldn’t function.”

He said if he is ever critical of the work being done by local authorities, it is only because he wants to help them do better.

Javid said that in order to ‘get things done’, a ‘strong, open, constructive relationship’ must exist between local and central government so as to ensure that councils are able to deliver the services everyone needs.

He concluded by saying: “Local government has long been more trusted than its national counterpart. I want that high level of trust, and the equally high satisfaction with services, to continue.

“I want to keep on working with all of you to help make that happen. And I’m looking forward to doing just that for many years to come.”