Councils face ban on using overtly political language under new law Eric Pickles, the Communities Secretary, could ban local councils from using contentious phrases such as 'bedroom tax' in local authority newsletters, leaflets and online publicity, it has emerged. Conservative chairman Sir Merrick Cockell told The Independent: "The Government needs to see sense and withdraw these ill-thought out proposals. Councils must retain the ability to communicate its views to its residents and not be stifled from commenting on central government policy. Critics say the new powers could also prevent Tory councils from attacking the Coalition's support for schemes such as HS2 or the potential expansion of Heathrow airport. Brandon Lewis, the Local Government Minister, said the measures were designed to protect the "good, local independent press" and ensuring taxpayers' money is used effectively. Overtly political material should be funded by the parties rather than local residents, he said. Mr Brandon added: "Local authority publicity can be expensive and it can be controversial so it is important that local authorities get it right when they produce publicity."