Local Government Association chief executive Carolyn Downs has called for a ‘massive seismic shift' in the relationship between national and central government, ahead of anticipated further spending round cutbacks.

Addressing The MJ's second ‘Future Forum' event on the financial challenge for local government yesterday, Ms Downs  said: 'If we are going to drive ahead the changes that are needed  going to secure the future of local public services there needs to be a massive massive seismic shift  in the relationship between national and local government.'