The National Association have provided this latest update, featured in the NALC CEO's ebulletin published 23rd January 2025*

Earlier this month, NALC worked with members of the House of Lords to propose an amendment to the National Insurance Contributions (Secondary Class 1 Contributions) Bill. The amendment aimed to protect parish and town councils from the proposed increase, given that the government does not propose to fund the additional cost. While the government did not support the amendment, both NALC and parish and town councils were mentioned several times during the Grand Committee stage of the bill in the House of Lords. Lord Forsyth of Drumlean asked why parish and town councils were being singled out as not getting additional support, in contrast to other parts of local government. Baroness Kramer thanked NALC for our briefing and acknowledged that parish and town councils would undoubtedly have to increase their precepts to cover the additional costs. NALC’s vice-president, Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle, highlighted various projects run by parish and town councils, emphasising their close ties to the communities they serve. She cautioned that taking money away from that (through increased employer contributions) would have enormous consequences for communities. We will continue our advocacy on this issue and provide further updates.

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