New scrutiny powers would help to strengthen local democracy

Last updated:23 July 2009

On 21 July, the new ministerial team at Communities and Local Government published a consultation document about proposals to strengthen local democracy. At the heart of the proposals is a recognision that councils need to be fully equipped with the powers they need to act decisively and effectively on behalf of their citizens - powers and ability to scrutinise, influence and shape other services.

CfPS welcomes the coverage that the document gives to proposals to give councils more scope to scrutinise the spending and decisions of local service providers and to build stronger scrutiny of sub-regional issues. We are especially pleased to see that the document recognises the benefit of resourcing scrutiny effectively. We know that this is an issue for many councils in the present economic climate where executives may be tempted to see scrutiny as an 'easy target'.

CfPS will be making a response to the proposals in time for the deadline on 2 October. If you would like to send us your views, please use the discussion forum item on our website.

The consultation document can be found at:

http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/localgovernment/localdemocracyconsultation