Government ministers are facing calls to ‘open the books’ and to publish new information on public spending in local areas. The call comes from the Local Government Association in its response to consultations on the Sustainable Communities Act 2007. The LGA wants the Communities and Local Government Secretary, Hazel Blears, to publish public service spending details by the autumn.

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A task force has been set up to try to persuade more women from ethnic minority backgrounds to become involved in grassroots politics and to stand as local councillors. The new group has been established by the Minister for Women and Equalities, Harriet Harman.

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By Jessica Prendergrast, Beth Foley, Verena Menne and Alex KaralisIssac.

This book challenges the Government to develop a broader approach to policymaking. It outlines how lessons from the field of behavioural economics can help tackle urgent policy priorities, including reducing obesity, and reducing car-use.

Read more on CREATURES OF HABIT? THE ART OF BEHAVIOURAL CHANGE…