Government's Division of Enhancement to abandon political catchphrases
Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government Renamed after 2024 General Election
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) has been renamed back to its original title following the 2024 General Election. The Labour government, under Prime Minister Keir Starmer, took office on July 8, 2024, and the renaming reflects a shift in governmental focus and policy priorities.
The change in name primarily signifies a move away from the "Levelling Up" brand, heavily associated with the previous Conservative government's agenda. The Labour government aims to reframe the department's objectives more traditionally around housing, community development, and local government issues without the political connotations of "Levelling Up."
The new name, MHCLG, emphasizes traditional areas such as housing provision, community support, and local government administration, which may align better with the Labour government’s policy framework and governance style. William Nicholas, regional director at Lanpro, believes that the name change aims to reemphasize the role of local government and demonstrates that they see local authorities and mayors playing a significant and collaborative role in the future growth of the country.
The department's name has undergone several changes since its creation in the early 2000s. It was previously known as the Department for Communities and Local Government and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government. The re-inclusion of "local government" in the title should symbolize the importance of empowering and encouraging local authorities to implement the Government's planning reforms.
The announcement of the English Devolution Bill was made in the King's speech, which was held on Wednesday. The bill aims to pass powers from Westminster to local authorities, aligning with the Labour Party's desire to prioritize devolution. The Prime Minister's recent meetings with metro mayors and the proposed bill on devolution highlight the crucial role that local government will play in planning and delivering the pledged 1.5 million new homes over the next five years.
The name change also aims to shed the political slogan "levelling up," associated with Boris Johnson's previous election campaign. Angela Rayner, who leads the department, tweeted about focusing on public service, fixing fundamentals, and governing in the national interest. The North East Mayor may receive a devolution deal as part of this new approach to devolution and housing plans.
It's important to note that a name change in itself achieves nothing. The true measure of success will be in what is delivered. The MHCLG will need to demonstrate its commitment to housing, community development, and local government issues in the coming years. Paul Buffington's image accompanies this article, reflecting the significance of local authorities in the new government's plans.
- The department's new name, MHCLG, reflects a shift in focus for the Labour government, emphasizing traditional areas such as housing, community development, and local government, potentially signifying a more collaborative role for local authorities in the country's growth.
- The renaming of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) aims to reframe the department's objectives, distancing itself from the politically charged "Levelling Up" agenda of the previous Conservative government.
- The English Devolution Bill, announced in the King's speech, underscores the Labour government's commitment to devolution, empowering local authorities with powers previously held by Westminster, and emphasizing inclusion in policies related to housing and community development.
