There have been some significant changes for local government in the Prime Minister’s cabinet reshuffle, with Michael Gove replacing Robert Jenrick as secretary of state at the newly-named Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. Congratulations as well to Kemi Badenoch, who is the new minister of state for levelling up and equalities.

I’d like to thank Robert and Luke for all of the support they have given to local government during what has been an incredibly difficult period for councils and their communities.