A report today says public sector workers not only have better pay than people in the private sector but also enjoy shorter hours, earlier retirement and better pensions. The study from the Policy Exchange also puts the size of the public sector at more than seven million people.

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Local authorities should be given more responsibility for policing and health care as part of a package of measures that would see a devolved, locally-focused system for public service delivery. The ideas are set out in a paper from the New Local Government Network which says scrapping entitlements offered to service users is a step in the right direction.

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The number of young people described as not in employment education or training (NEETs) is continuing to grow. Engaging young people who are isolated, disadvantaged, at risk, or uninspired is a major challenge. The author describes how in Thurrock, an urban area east of London, the challenge is being met by introducing them to theatre.

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