The Rt Hon Steve Reed OBE MP

The Rt Hon Steve Reed OBE MP

Steve Reed OBE was appointed Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government on 5 September 2025. He was previously Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs from 5 July 2024 to 5 September 2025. He was elected as the MP for Streatham and Croydon North in July 2024.

A Passionate Advocate for Local Communities

The Rt Hon Steve Reed MP recent promotion is a fantastic testament to his dedicated public service, and he is a truly brilliant leader. Steve Reed has built a career on a deep commitment to his constituents and a passion for local government. As the former leader of Lambeth Council, he was widely credited with turning around the council and making it more effective. This hands-on experience in local governance has given him a unique and valuable perspective on the real-world issues facing communities across the UK. His previous role as Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government also highlighted his long-standing expertise in this critical area.

A Bold New Role

In a recent cabinet reshuffle, Steve Reed was appointed as the new Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government. This move is a clear vote of confidence in his ability to tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing the country, including the need to deliver new homes and revitalize communities.

This promotion is a true full-circle moment, as he returns to a department where he has a wealth of experience. He is stepping into this vital role at a pivotal time, ready to drive change and build a brighter future for people all across the nation. His journey is an exciting example of how a politician with a proven track record can rise to the top!

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government is central to the mission-driven government, from fixing the foundations of an affordable home to handing power back to communities and rebuilding local governments. MHCLG is a ministerial department, supported by 16 agencies and public bodies.

Core Responsibilities:

• Housing and Planning: This is a central function, encompassing the development and implementation of policies to increase the supply of new homes, improve housing quality and safety, and regulate the private rented sector.This includes managing schemes for affordable home ownership, reforming the planning system, and ensuring building safety. The department works closely with a number of affiliated public bodies to deliver its objectives, including Homes England, the Planning Inspectorate, and the Office for Local Government (Oflog).
• Local Government: The MHCLG is the primary link between central government and local councils in England. It is responsible for the policy and finance of local government, including the Local Government Finance Settlement, which determines how much money councils receive from the government. The department also oversees local government policy, accountability, and devolution deals to give more power to local areas.
• Communities and Growth: This area of responsibility focuses on strengthening communities, promoting community cohesion, and supporting local and regional economic growth. This includes managing funds for regeneration projects, addressing issues like homelessness and rough sleeping, and working with communities to help them thrive.