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Publications

Shortly after every Westminster Social Policy Forum seminar, a briefing document is produced. This is distributed to all delegates on the day as well as to our contacts in government, Parliament and stakeholders more widely.

A seminar publication provides a timely record of proceedings, and acts as a guide to the latest thinking on current policy issues for those unable to be at the event.

Each publication includes:

All speeches from the day, with accompanying slides and speaker biographies
(subject to approval by speaker);
Transcripts of question and comment sessions;
Supplementary articles from speakers and delegates; and
Event information such as the delegate list and final agenda

Should you have any queries, please email sue.harris@westminsterforumprojects.co.uk.

Future local government funding - partnerships, business rates, localism and efficiency

PUBLISHED February 2012

This publication is CPD certified

This seminar focused on the Local Government Resource Review and the opportunities it opens up for local government. It was a timely opportunity to examine the potential impact of putting more power in the hands of local authorities, the impact this had on those who are funded and on businesses, as well as assessing whether it led to a more commercially aware sector.

The Local Government Resource Review was tasked with examining the way local authorities are funded, with a view to giving them greater financial autonomy - and strengthening the incentives to support growth in the private sector and regeneration of local economies, primarily through development. The Review also looked at changes to the business rates system. Delegates at this seminar discussed approaches to reduce the reliance of local government on central government funding, increase local accountability and ensure that the benefits of economic growth are reflected in the resources authorities have.