Levelling Up becomes focus as MHGLC changes name.

The appointment of former Bank of England Chief Economist, Andy Haldane to the role of new Head of Levelling Up Taskforce has brought about a change: What was formerly known as the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHGLC) will now be referred to as the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities. These modifications come as the government stresses its mission to help level up all areas of the UK.

As the country continues to ‘build back better’ from the ongoing pandemic and fulfil the priorities of the public, the Secretary of State will push cross-Whitehall efforts to provide a programme of substantial improvements all over the UK.  

Not only will the Secretary of State take on an extra title of Minister for Intergovernmental Relations (this will involve working directly with the Territorial Offices and working on the Prime Minister’s behalf to head the coordination with the devolved administrations), but he will also have the responsibility for the UK’s governance and elections.  

The Secretary of State will have support in the Department from several people. This includes the new Minister if State, and Parliament Under Secretary of State. 

Prime Minister, Boris Johnson commented:

“This government is committed to uniting and levelling up every part of the UK and I am determined that as we build back better from the pandemic, we are geared up with the teams and expertise to deliver on that promise.

“Andy is uniquely qualified to lead our efforts to raise living standards, spread opportunity, improve our public services and restore people’s sense of pride in their communities.

“I look forward to working with him, and with my new Ministerial team, to deliver the opportunities this country needs.”

Michael Gove, the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, said:

“I’m thrilled that the PM has asked me to lead the levelling up agenda, the defining mission of this government.

“With a superb team of Ministers and officials in a new Department, our relentless focus will be on delivering for those overlooked families and undervalued communities across the United Kingdom.