Use modern communication for public emergency information
That all local authorities include in their plans for responding to emergencies arrangements for providing information to the public by whatever combination of modern methods of communication are likely to be most effective for the areas for which they are responsible. (113.78)
- The government expressed support for this recommendation directed at local authorities in February 2025 (Government Response to Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 Report, MHCLG, February 2025).
- The government's annual report stated MHCLG continues engagement with sector partners on guidance for providing information to the public using modern communication methods during emergencies (Annual Report on Progress, MHCLG, February 2026).
- The government reported that recommendation 55 was one of nine recommendations completed since its February annual report (Grenfell Tower Inquiry: Government Progress Report, MHCLG, 20 May 2026).
How was this evidence gathered?
Response
Accepted
Response
AcceptedThe government supports this recommendation made towards local authorities. Local authorities already have a legal obligation through their duties under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. This duty will be highlighted in guidance that clarifies key duties on local authorities.
The government supports this recommendation made towards local authorities. Local authorities already have a legal obligation through their duties under the Civil Contingencies Act 2004. This duty will be highlighted in guidance that clarifies key duties on local authorities.
Progress Timeline
Since the Annual Report published in February 2026, we have completed a further 9 recommendations. Recommendations 22, 23, 27 and 28 are related to the construction industry, and 51, 52, 53, 54 and 55 are related to response and recovery.
MHCLG continues engagement with sector partners to determine appropriate guidance approaches for providing information to the public in emergencies. (Covers Recommendations 50-55.)