New Labour chair of LGA announced

David Sparks has been announced as the chair-elect of the Local Government Association (LGA) following Labour’s success in the local elections. He will be the first Labour chair since 2004, and will officially succeed Tory Sir Merrick Cockell as chair on the first day of the LGA’s annual conference, on July 8th.

After Labour’s council gains 0n the 22nd May, the LGA’s political balance is now 40.6% Labour, 38.3% Conservative, 10.8% Liberal Democrat, 10% other and 0.3% Plaid Cymru.

Sparks has promised robust leadership at a difficult time for local governance, saying:

“These are crucial times for local government and it will be vital that we continue to speak with one unified voice. Sir Merrick built a rapport across all parties during his time as chair, and I am determined to continue that consensus approach.

There is a desire across the political spectrum for the LGA to be robust in our dealings with government, while able to work constructively with ministers. As a Labour chair I will be able to put forward a strong case for local government from a position outside the coalition parties. I will be a staunch advocate for councils of all types and political make-ups.”