STORY
The Local Government Association has raised concerns about proposed metrics that could trigger new Government intervention powers over councils. The Government is consulting on powers that could force councils to sell assets or curb borrowing if they are judged to be acting recklessly.
The LGA’s analysis suggests there are issues with the proposed methods for deciding when intervention should apply. Council leaders have warned that poorly designed metrics could penalise authorities facing structural financial pressures rather than identifying genuinely reckless behaviour.
The debate forms part of wider concern in local Government about financial oversight, council autonomy and the handling of authorities under severe budget pressure. Ministers are seeking stronger safeguards, while councils argue that intervention powers must be fair, transparent and proportionate.