Rosie Winterton, the Minister of State for Communities and Local Government, has issued a written statement to the House of Commons today that acknowledges both the widespread support, in principle, for unitary local government in Suffolk and the lack of a consensus as to what any unitary solution should look like.
The Government is, therefore, calling a County Constitutional Convention for a later date to which Suffolk council chief executives, leaders, local MPs and other stakeholders will be invited to see if any agreement can be reached.
Cllr Nick Ridley, Babergh's Strategy Committe chairman, said: "Babergh has been a strong supporter in principle of unitary local government for Suffolk.
"Therefore, we are thoroughly frustrated at facing yet another delay and further uncertainty in the LGR process.
"However, we are pleased to see an acknowledgement from the Minister as to the widespread support for a unitary solution for Suffolk and we aim to make a strong and positive contribution to the County Constitutional Convention, whenever that is due to meet."