Local Government

HC Deb 16 October 2002 vol 390 c897W

Mr. Casale

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister if he will make a statement on comprehensive performance assessments for local authorities. [71971]

Mr. Leslie

The Local Government White Paper, StrongLocal Leadership—Quality Public Services, published in December 2001, introduced a requirement for local authorities to be assessed and categorised on the basis of a comprehensive appraisal of their performance. This Comprehensive Performance Assessment (CPA) is intended to cover performance across an authority's full range of service areas. The Audit Commission is tasked with taking the lead in coordinating and delivering the new assessment process.