The King's Speech offers a fascinating insight into the complexity that is the central and local government relationship.

With a manifesto to deliver what contains more than 100 commitments related to local government, it was widely expected the new government's legislative programme would include much to interest local councils despite recognition that many of the long-term issues, such as the broken finance system or long-term reform in social care, would need patience. Bills as wide ranging as launching Skills England, localising the way buses are run, tackling race equality and addressing mental health were all included alongside more besides. The mood music has changed and there is a sense of anticipation that the relationship between central and local government will also change.