Analysis The MJ
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Clarke’s pop quiz
September 1, 2020
The English reorganisation debate has shone a light on proposed new unitaries, particularly the idea of optimum population sizes. Heather Jameson analyses some of the research. Economic geography seems to be the driving factor under consideration.
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A demolition job on the planning system
August 20, 2020
The Prime Minister regards the new planning White Paper as ‘levelling the foundations’ of the present system but critics say it emasculates the role of local authorities. Michael Burton takes a look at what the paper proposes.
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Delivering a recovery that works for children
August 18, 2020
The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Children hosted a virtual event looking at the action needed to support children, young people and families to recover from the impact of COVID-19. Ann McGauran reports.
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Battle for the top job
August 7, 2020
As the Liberal Democrats vote for their next leader, in this exclusive interview, Heather Jameson spoke to the two leadership candidates about what local government means to them
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Rebuilding Redbridge
July 30, 2020
Redbridge LBC is one of the areas likely to be hit with the double whammy of a high impact from COVID-19 and low resilience, says a report from the Social Market Foundation. Heather Jameson reports.
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At the sharp end of Scottish scrutiny
July 30, 2020
The chair of Scotland’s public spending watchdog for councils steps down this month. Graham Sharp talks to Ann McGauran about his legacy and says the challenges have never been greater.
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What’s the recovery position?
July 29, 2020
The chancellor has opened the door to a less generous funding settlement for public services, but will he end up turning his back on a slash-and-burn approach? Martin Ford reports.
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Closing the gap
July 27, 2020
Jenny Coles, president of the Association of Directors of Children’s Services, gives Ann McGauran a realistic picture of how local government will need to work to overcome the challenges faced by many children and families post-COVID.
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It takes two
July 22, 2020
A £3bn winter funding boost for the NHS has highlighted a lack of focus on an adult social care sector that's been under pressure long before the COVID pandemic. Ann McGauran looks at the growing need for a joined up approach.
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Seeking a ray of fiscal hope
July 21, 2020
Sector experts say the chancellor’s summer statement may ease some pressures on local economies, but does not offer councils any more on funding. Heather Jameson gauges the reaction.
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This is a partial kickstart at best
July 16, 2020
Tom Stannard says that while the Kickstart job creation scheme is welcome, an inclusive all-ages progression strategy for both young people and working age adults is vital .
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Real imagination needed for a green reset
July 16, 2020
More ambitious progress on place-based approaches to reducing carbon emissions will need ‘a great deal of political will and resources’, according to a Penna/The MJ virtual seminar. Heather Jameson reports.
