To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what steps are being taken to assist local authorities to meet requirements for equal pay for men and women; and if she will make a statement. (226135)

Central Government have increased the financial flexibility available to local authorities to meet their equal pay obligations and to speed up progress on delivering equal pay. On 26 September, the Government issued £455 million of equal pay capitalisation directions for 34 local authorities. This builds on the £500 million issued to 46 authorities last year, and takes the total approved by Government to more than £1.1 billion. This support will ensure authorities maintain the positive momentum they have established in implementing equal pay settlements.