§ 27. Mr. KidneyTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what steps he is taking to encourage local authorities to seek best value in the services that they provide. [30648]
§ Ms ArmstrongWe have today published a consultation paper on the framework for improving local services through best value. Copies of the paper have been deposited in the Library of the House and a copy of the paper is being sent to all Members of Parliament.
The consultation paper, which is the second in our series aimed at modernising local government, seeks comments on the framework that we intend to put in place to require local authorities to deliver local services to the standard that people want and at a price they are prepared to pay. It will require continuous improvements in performance, including quality and efficiency, and encourage local authorities to examine every way to secure improvements, including working in partnership with the private sector when this will deliver better performance.