Charles Walker calls on the Government for reassurance that it is helping counties such as Hertfordshire to get their money back that is locked up in Icelandic banks.

Mr. Charles Walker (Broxbourne) (Con): Will the Minister give way?

John Healey: I am very early on in my speech, but I am delighted to give way to the hon. Gentleman.

Mr. Walker: The Minister referred to championing local government. As he will know, local authorities of all complexions are struggling with losses as their money is locked up in Icelandic banks. Can he assure the House that he is helping counties such as Hertfordshire and Kent to get their money back from those banks and that he is working closely with the Chancellor to ensure the right outcome in the next few months?

John Healey: I can indeed. I am working closely not only with Treasury Ministers and the Treasury but with the Local Government Association and local government itself. If the hon. Gentleman will forgive me, I will deal with the position of councils and the Icelandic banks later, having met the LGA and Treasury Ministers earlier this afternoon.

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