Local authorities are caught between a rock and a hard place when cutting budgets, but evidence from Scotland shows they can avoid making a bad situation worse by protecting those most in need Read more...
News that the Treasury is looking for even bigger cuts from unprotected Whitehall departments is adding to the public sector gloom. So what is to be done? Read more...
Ministers are at loggerheads over who should bear the brunt of £10bn extra spending cuts. This outbreak of ‘fiscal nimbyism’ signals deep Cabinet tensions over protected and non-protected departments Read more
The public has still not grasped the implications of 25-35% spending cuts for public services. It’s time for councils to open the books and launch local information campaigns that engage local citizens Read more
Collaboration between organisations is a matter of survival in these harsh times. But it takes a lot more than mouthing platitudes to make it work Read more
The DCLG’s ’50 ways to save’ suggestions are at best obvious, and at worst will undermine vital local services and charities Read more
Household poverty is complex, varied and often hidden from public view. Government policies need to be adapted accordingly Read more
The LGA’s bleak financial forecast for councils poses some very tough choices for local leaders. The first job is to face up to the options ahead Read more
The Audit Commission’s warning about the financial pressure on councils came as no surprise. Drastic changes are likely, with knock-on effects on local democracy Read more
Yesterday’s borrowing figures mean the fiscal hole is much bigger than expected. Eye-watering cuts will have to be continued into the next parliament if the chancellor is to eliminate the structural deficit. Read more
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