Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what progress she has made on a devolution deal for Essex; and whether she plans to amend the date of the local elections scheduled for May 2025.

In July, the Deputy Prime Minister invited places without devolution agreements, such as Essex, to come forward with proposals for their areas. This process closed in September and we are engaging closely with local leaders and stakeholders to review proposals.

The Government will shortly publish a white paper setting out an ambitious new framework for English devolution.

No plans have been made to amend the date of the local elections scheduled for May 2025.