COUNCILS FEAR METAL THEFTS PUT LIVES AT RISK

Rising scrap metal prices have led to an increase in thefts of road signs, drain covers and copper and in some cases that is putting lives at risk, according to the Local Government Association. It says the number of crimes being reported by councils up and down the country has risen with the price of scrap.

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By Blythe Robertson An ability to share data is a critical success factor for multi-agency working. The Scottish Executive has launched the eCare Framework which allows the NHS, local authorities, police and other agencies to share personal data. It has also set up a National Data Sharing Forum to provide overall governance of local and national activity. The author describes how the Framework was set up to give common view of the citizen across all agencies that need to share data and the benefits it brings.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT PENSION SCHEME PROPOSALS CRITICISED AS CONSULTATION BEGINS

Consultations have begun on a revised Local Government Pension Scheme. Employees will be expected to pay bigger contributions as part of a package of reforms designed to ensure there is no added burden to council tax payers. The proposals, announced by Local Government Minister Phil Woolas, follow discussions between the employers’ side and relevant trade unions. The announcement marks the beginning of a 12-week consultation period but the leading Local Government union is already warning its members won’t pay more for less.

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