Hammersmith and Fulham Council is held up as an example of an energetic and determined local authority in a report published today by the Centre for Policy Studies. “The New Good Council Guide Part One” describes how the authority has cut council tax but improved services. 

More councils are to be given the financial flexibility to be able to move faster towards their their long-term commitments to achieving equal pay for staff. The Local Government Minister, John Healey, has given approval to 34 local authorities to raise the money to meet equal pay liabilities. The announcement, which has been welcomed by the union, UNISON, and by the Local Government Employers, means the councils can now raise 455 million pounds either by borrowing against or selling assets. 

This Task Force report on removing bureaucratic burdens describes any central government activity which hinders the effective and efficient delivery of services and outcomes at the local level as a burden. This can include; plans, guidance, legislation, approval processes, funding arrangements or performance information as well as inspection activity carried out by independent inspectorates and regulators.