Question to the Scotland Office:

To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, what recent discussions he has had with the Scottish Government on the devolving of power to local authorities.

The UK Government is firmly committed to empowering local leaders and communities across the whole of the United Kingdom.

I regularly meet with Scottish Government Ministers to discuss how our two governments can work together to drive economic growth and improve public services.

During these discussions, I have consistently championed the vital role that local government plays. The UK Government already works closely with Scottish local authorities through our joint delivery of City Region and Growth Deals, and the new Local Growth Fund, and we will continue to encourage the Scottish Government to ensure that local councils across Scotland have the appropriate powers and resources they need to deliver for their communities.