COSLA’s President, Councillor Shona Morrison, has written to the new Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer and the Secretary of State for Scotland, Mr Ian Murray, following the announcement of the results of the UK 2024 General Election.

Councillor Morrison said:

“Firstly, I would like to extend my congratulations to the new Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer. Today I have written to the new Prime Minister and the Secretary of State for Scotland outlining some of the key issues faced by our local government members and the communities they represent.

“We will welcome opportunities to work closely with the UK Government and Scottish Government as partners to improve the wellbeing of people in our communities, continue on the vitally important journey towards a just transition to net zero, and ensure that those in our communities facing the most difficult challenges are fully supported by their local services.

“Our membership, Scotland’s 32 Councils, are the closest sphere of government to people in our communities, and deliver essential services for those communities every day. The incoming Government must listen to local government, take into account of our concerns and expertise, and work in partnership with us to ensure there is fair funding and empowerment to make the most effective decisions for the people we are elected to represent.”