To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, what steps she is taking to monitor the Savings Programme 2025 process at Hampshire County Council.

Councils are responsible for their own financial management.

This Government recognises the vital work that local councils do for their communities. The department works closely with local government and other government departments to understand specific demand and cost pressures facing councils. We stand ready to speak to any council that is experiencing financial difficulties.

This Government will get councils back on their feet by providing multi-year funding settlements, ending competitive bidding for pots of money and reforming the local audit system.