Labour's shadow local government secretary, Hilary Benn, has delivered his first major speech in his new role, berating Eric Pickles for showing little ‘enthusiasm' for the sector and devolving only responsibility for axing key services.

Addressing delegates at Local Government Information Unit (LGIU) conference on 28 October, Mr Benn – former deputy leader of Ealing LBC – said he was a ‘passionate believer' in local government, but warned the sector is still not ‘appreciated enough' despite coalition plans to devolve to communities new powers and financial tools.