Our analysis of the chancellor’s Autumn Statement concluded with the observation that, without some bold changes in legislation and policy, the ability to sustain districts’ important range of strategic, preventative and universal services seemed likely to be further jeopardised.

Unsurprisingly, the local government finance policy statement issued by the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) brought limited pre-Christmas cheer for districts.  The step in itself was odd –typically we’d have had the technical consultation by now. This statement brought more information into light, without actually sharing numbers.  In something of a contradiction, the statement confirmed a two-year settlement, which had been the subject of much debate since Michael Gove announced this intention back in the summer, and then set out a  review of funding for districts in 2024-25 to coincide with the implementation of waste reforms.