Labour is under mounting pressure to release the legal advice that led to its dramatic U-turn on cancelling local elections for millions of voters. The Liberal Democrats are planning to table a rare 'humble address' to the King next Tuesday, which would compel the Government to publish the advice. This follows a similar move earlier this month that forced Labour to release documents on the appointment of Lord Mandelson as US ambassador.
The controversy centres on Local Government Secretary Steve Reed, who faces calls to resign after it emerged that the U-turn—Labour's 14th since taking power—will cost taxpayers £63 million to fix. The original plan to postpone elections in 30 councils was abandoned after a last-minute change in legal advice suggested it would be unlawful. Attorney General Lord Hermer is also under scrutiny for his role in the initial advice.
Reform UK leader Nigel Farage has branded the U-turn 'a victory for democracy' and called for Mr Reed's resignation. The Government has agreed to pay Reform's legal costs. Meanwhile, local council leaders have expressed anger, with one describing Mr Reed as a 'two-faced bully'. The Government insists that, by convention, legal advice is not disclosed, but pressure continues to mount.
