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“Councils have been at the forefront of the work to tackle the issue of modern slavery, from prevention through to the provision of support to victims."

"We need urgent efforts to decarbonise energy and insulate homes, focused on households in fuel poverty to ensure people are able to cope with the worsening cost of living crisis."

“Turning levelling up from a political slogan to a reality will only be achieved if councils have the powers and funding they need to address regional inequality, tackle concentrations of deprivation and make towns and communities across England attractive places to live, work and visit."

“We are pleased that the Government has committed to introducing legislation through the Renters Reform Bill to strengthen protections for private renters and abolish ‘no-fault evictions’. This is something the LGA and councils have been calling for the Government to introduce since it was included in its 2019 manifesto."

"It is good the Government has acted on our call for councils to be allowed to establish their own multi-academy trusts. This recognises the important role of councils as education partners and enables maintained schools to continue enjoying a close working relationship with their council."

“Councils are determined to tackle climate change and are already supporting the transition to electric vehicles. It is good that the Queen’s Speech outlines ambitions to speed up this transition but councils need clarity about their role in delivering this change."

"This needs to be supported by adequate resources for councils to make sure tests are undertaken and for swift follow-up action following any positive cases."

“We are encouraged to see that the LGA’s call for a delay to aspects of these reforms might be being listened to as there is not currently the funding and capacity in place needed to ensure these reforms are a success."

Whilst councils are working hard to support the transition to zero-emission vehicles, it is vital that we avoid a huge increase in traffic levels on our local roads, which could be 54 per cent higher by 2060.

“What works in urban centres is different to rural communities. We are pleased the Government has listened to the LGA and councils and decided not to significantly reduce the flexibilities in how councils collect waste from people’s homes."