Question to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities:

To ask Her Majesty's Government what plans they have to ensure that (1) disabled councillors, (2) those shielding from COVID-19 or other illnesses, and (3) those with caring responsibilities, are able (a) to legally participate in council proceedings remotely, and (b) to be recorded as present at the meeting.

The Government launched a call for evidence last year to gather views and inform a longer-term decision about whether to make express provision for councils to meet remotely and enable councillors to attend meetings remotely, if necessary, on a permanent basis. The Department has considered the responses to the consultation and the Government will respond shortly.