Oral Answers to Questions

Alicia Kearns Excerpts

Monday 23rd February 2026 Commons Chamber

[Alison McGovern]

I thank my hon. Friend for raising this incredibly important issue; I am working closely with Department for Education Ministers on it. I had the pleasure of speaking to a representative of Redcar and Cleveland earlier today, but I will keep working closely with my hon. Friend as well.

[Alicia Kearns (Rutland and Stamford) (Con)]

I am afraid that this question may feel like groundhog day. This time last month, I asked for a meeting about local government reform, because my residents are so concerned. I was promised a meeting, yet despite having chased at least twice a week every single week for the past month, we have had zero response from the Department. When are we going to get the meetings on really important matters that we are promised in this Chamber?

[Alison McGovern]

I thank the hon. Lady for chasing that. I am sure we will meet before too long. [Laughter.]

[Alicia Kearns]

It is not funny.

[Alison McGovern]

I do not think it is funny either. We will meet before too long and get on with it, because local government reorganisation is very important.