The Government has rejected a request for a public inquiry into Thurrock Council’s financial failure and significant levels of debt.
Thurrock Council members wrote to secretary of state Michael Gove on behalf of more than 1,500 residents who called for a public inquiry into the local authority’s financial issues.
Minister for Local Government Simon Hoare MP responded that a public inquiry would not ‘provide further understanding into the historical failings or management of the council that is not being achieved through statutory intervention’.
Thurrock has been subject to Government intervention since issuing a s114 in December 2022 after accruing debts of £1.3bn.
‘I believe the ongoing intervention and the Best Value Inspection provide the best approach to understanding and tackling the issues Thurrock Council face,’ Mr Hoare continued.
‘Furthermore, we will continue to closely monitor financial and commercial risk in the sector and take action where necessary.’
