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“Rising knife crime is causing horrendous destruction and grief in our communities and councils are uncovering some shocking cases of illegal knife sales which risk fuelling this tragic epidemic. Retailers must ask for proof of age if they suspect the buyer is under 25."

Lord Porter responds to the latest building safety announcements made by Communities Secretary Robert Jenrick

Responding to the request by the Chairman of the Grenfell Inquiry’s request to the Attorney General to grant witnesses immunity, Lord Porter, building safety spokesman for the Local Government Association, said:  “The LGA is extremely concerned at the possibility that some witnesses to the Grenfell Inquiry could be granted immunity from having any evidence they give to the inquiry used in subsequent prosecutions against them. “The Grenfell Tower fire was an unacceptable failure of building safety that must never be allowed to happen again. All those involved in any way have a duty to fully

“With greater capacity to deliver more tests, the Government should prioritise those at most risk, including staff who work in care homes and support the most vulnerable."

People are being urged to think carefully before considering travelling to a beach this weekend and to check it is open and safe to visit.

Cllr Ian Hudspeth responds to the announcement of £300 million additional funding for local authorities to support the new test and trace service.

"Councils can’t tackle domestic abuse alone. To help prepare for an expected surge in demand for support from victims as lockdown measures ease, we would like the Government to engage more with police, councils and the Domestic Abuse Commissioner and to create a Domestic Abuse Perpetrator Strategy for England and Wales."

“It is reassuring to know that lifeguard provision will increase as this country faces what could be its busiest ever summer beach season, with many schools closed and restrictions on travel abroad."

"Youth services support young people, helping them to make positive choices and keep them safe as they transition to adulthood. These services are even more essential as a result of the COVID-19 crisis."

“This announcement has caused confusion among councils who need urgent clarity from the Government on any extra resources and details on how it should work on the ground."