Minister McGovern Consults Councils on Postponing May Local Elections

Alison McGovern, the local government minister, has requested views from 64 councils nationwide regarding the potential postponement of local elections scheduled for May. The proposed delay aims to streamline the process of local government reorganization.

Responses from Hertfordshire indicate significant division among the six councils scheduled for elections. Broxbourne, St Albans, Three Rivers, and Watford councils have informed the minister that they believe the elections should proceed.

In contrast, Stevenage Borough Council and Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council have both voted to support a postponement. The Stevenage cabinet voted on January 14, while the coalition cabinet of Welwyn Hatfield voted on January 15. Peter Sellers, the Labour leader of Stevenage Borough Council, argued that delaying the polls would protect local finances and services. Max Holloway, the Labour leader of Welwyn Hatfield Borough Council, formally wrote to the minister to request the postponement.

Final authority on whether the May elections will be delayed rests with government ministers.