Local Elections: Cancellation

Bernard Jenkin Excerpts

Monday 19th January 2026 Commons Chamber

[Alison McGovern]

Given the number of times buses have been raised with me when I have been door-knocking during elections, I am surprised that they do not lead the news more often. I congratulate my hon. Friend on her efforts to get decent bus services for her constituents, and would say to any local authority that if it wants to engage with residents on the things they care about, buses should be top of the list.

[Sir Bernard Jenkin (Harwich and North Essex) (Con)]

Is it just a coincidence that the only three councils in Essex that want to cancel the elections—Basildon, Harlow and Thurrock—are all run by the Labour party, while all the others—Braintree, Chelmsford, Colchester, Brentwood, Epping Forest, Rochford, Southend and Essex county council—want the elections to go ahead? Is the Minister going to listen to the majority?

[Alison McGovern]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for the points he raises. I have set out the way in which we are consulting with local authorities, and the Secretary of State will take the decision accordingly.

--- Later in debate ---

[Madam Deputy Speaker (Judith Cummins)]

I thank the right hon. Gentleman for his point of order. That is a continuation of the debate, and I am not responsible for the Minister’s comments; however, he has put his point of view on the record.

[Sir Bernard Jenkin]

On a point of order, Madam Deputy Speaker. Forgive me, but I must correct the record: Harlow council is a Conservative council, but it is the exception that proves the rule that they are otherwise all Labour councils.

[Madam Deputy Speaker]

I thank the hon. Gentleman for his point of order. He has now corrected the record.