Local Government Some Recent and Prospective Changes

Abstract

there are many controversial issues which arise from a study of local government. In a short space only a few of them can be considered. The issues of the greatest topical interest are those involved in the Government’s recent or prospective legislation on the subject. Reforms affecting finance have already been put into effect by the general grant system, imposed by the Local Government Act of 1958, and structural changes have taken place in the organisation of local government in London; the Redcliffe Maud Report of 1969 emphasised the structural and administrative weaknesses of local government in England. If its reforming proposals are acted upon by the Government of the day, the 1970s will witness a wholesale alteration in the status and powers for many local government authorities. Nor do the changes, present and prospective, only affect the administrators themselves. Local government clearly involves every citizen. Police, fire brigades, and Civil Defence services exist for his protection; the home in which he lives may be council-owned; he is likely to have the keenest interest in the number, variety, and efficiency of the schools in his district; the pleasantness of the area in which he lives may be greatly improved by an enterprising council which provides parks, ornamental gardens, and recreational activities.

The present period is one of great change. The importance of local government to the citizen. The need for reorganisation. Why changes are slow. The reports of the Local Government Commissions. The Royal Commission on Greater London. The Redcliffe-Maud Report, 1969. Present methods of financing local government. Suggested reforms.

THEME: The proposed changes are overdue and may strengthen local government.

Further Reading