Governance arrangements in local government

That this House recognises the value of the committee system as a democratic and transparent form of local governance, allowing decisions to be made collectively by elected councillors from across political parties; notes that the committee system enhances accountability, fosters cross-party collaboration, and ensures that a wider range of voices are included in decision-making; is concerned by any moves from central government that may compel councils to adopt alternative forms of governance, such as the executive or cabinet model, regardless of local preference; believes that local authorities are best placed to determine their own governance arrangements in accordance with the principles of local democracy and subsidiarity; and therefore calls on the Government to guarantee councils the continued right to adopt or retain the committee system without restriction or pressure, now and in the future.