Alicia Kearns Slams "Radio Silence" Over Local Government Reform

Alicia Kearns Slams "Radio Silence" Over Local Government Reform

By Rutland Democracy Reporter

The battle over the future of Rutland’s governance reached a boiling point in the House of Commons, as MP Alicia Kearns took the government to task over what she described as a "dismissive" and "disappointing" lack of engagement regarding local government reform.

For months, the shadow of structural change has loomed over Rutland, with residents voicing significant concerns about potential mergers or shifts in how the smallest unitary authority in England operates. Despite a high-profile promise of a sit-down with the Minister for Local Government, Alicia Kearns revealed today that the line has gone cold.

Addressing the House, Alicia Kearns didn't mince words. She highlighted that it has been over a month since she was originally promised a meeting to present the specific views and anxieties of her constituents to the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities.

"Despite the promise over a month ago of a meeting with the Local Government Minister to discuss residents’ views on local government reform, I still haven’t had a meeting or even a reply to requests for a meeting," Alicia Kearns stated.

For many in Rutland, the silence from Whitehall is being interpreted as more than just a scheduling conflict; it is being seen as a disregard for the unique needs of a county that prides itself on its independence and "Multum in Parvo" (Much in Little) status.

The frustration in the chamber peaked when Alicia Kearns pushed for a concrete date for the promised discussion. 

The Minister's response to Alicia Kearns’ inquiry was brief and notably avoided committing to a specific timeline

The Government’s Response, "Local Government re-organisation is an important issue, I don't think it's funny either. But I would just say to her, we will meet before too long and get on with it. Because local Government re-organisation is important. 

Alicia Kearns later described the exchange as "dismissive," noting that "in due course" offers little solace to residents worried about the erosion of local decision-making power.

Local government reform isn't just about bureaucracy; it’s about where your council tax goes and who decides on local planning and services. Alicia Kearns has been adamant that any reform must, Protect Rutland's identity. Ensure financial sustainability without losing local voice. Reflect the actual will of the residents, not just a Whitehall map-drawing exercise.

The MP has vowed to continue "banging on the door" of the Ministry until the promised meeting is secured. For now, Rutland remains in a state of political limbo, waiting for a government that promised to listen to actually pick up the phone.