P2-55 Response Accepted

Use modern communication for public emergency information

Recommendation

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)

Published Evidence Summary
The following publicly available evidence relates to this recommendation:
- 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).
Sources
How was this evidence gathered?
Evidence searched by Claude (Anthropic) on 10 Apr 2026
Checked data held on this site (government responses, progress updates, independent evidence)
This recommendation applies across many organisations. The evidence above reflects central policy activity; adoption in individual organisations may vary.
Jurisdiction
England
Response
Accepted
Accepted Local Authorities
26 Feb 2025

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.

Read Full Response
Progress Timeline
Official Report
01 Feb 2026

MHCLG continues engagement with sector partners to determine appropriate guidance approaches for providing information to the public in emergencies. (Covers Recommendations 50-55.)

Source
Source
Inquiry Grenfell Tower Inquiry
Report Grenfell Tower Inquiry: Phase 2 Report 04 Sep 2024
View Source
Responsible Bodies
Local Authorities Primary
Themes & Tags
Emergency contingency plans Emergency Response Communication Local Authorities
Recommendation age 1.7 yrs
Last formal update 01 Feb 2026