This report commissioned by the DTI and produced by the Society of Information Technology Management, provides a snapshot of progress being made by local authorities in the implementation of broadband across the UK. The report also provides information on the likely speed of future developments. Almost 80% of the larger authorities will be committed to a strategic approach to broadband across all networks by September 2004, but only 30% of shire districts will be. 

Chris Simpkins, 50, is taking the skills he has developed as Chief Executive of South Holland District Council in Lincolnshire to the Falkland Islands in the South Atlantic, some 300 miles from the South American mainland. His salary as Chief Executive will be almost 100 thousand pounds plus a gratuity of 25%. 

The first national three year Police Plan announced by Home Secretary David Blunkett sets out how the police in partnership with local councils, crime and disorder reduction partnerships, schools, health services, the private security industry, businesses, voluntary organisations, and faith communities can reduce crime. Model framework agreements setting out the respective responsibilities of local crime and disorder reduction partners will be developed over the coming year.