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Government Affairs Website
Conservatives turn spotlight on tax threat to motorists
News Article 8 June 2004
Thursday's local elections could help to decide whether motorists will face new taxes, the Conservatives have said.
Tories highlight council tax rises
News Article 26 May 2004
The Conservatives have launched an attack on the government's council tax record, despite being pushed on to the back foot by claims the party wants to reintroduce the poll tax.
Unitary council plans welcomed
Press Review 26 May 2004
Plans for large unitary local authorities have been well received in the three areas of England set to vote on regional assemblies, the FT reports.
Councils 'should set local income tax'
Press Review 26 May 2004
Councils could set different rates of local income tax under a system proposed as a replacement for council tax, under plans proposed in a government commissioned report by the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy.
Spelman climbs down over poll tax return
News Article 25 May 2004
Shadow local government secretary Caroline Spelman has been forced to clarify comments suggesting her party could back the return of the poll tax.
North braced for regional reform
Press Review 25 May 2004
Big changes in local government throughout the north of England have been ahead of for three devolution referendums on regional government expected early in November.
'Elements' of the poll tax considered
Press Review 25 May 2004
A Conservative government could reintroduce elements of the much-hated poll tax in a bid to reduce the tax burden on pensioners.
Forum of Private Business
Government Affairs Website
Focus on local government
News Article 19 May 2004
ePolitix.com examines the key issues facing local government.
Local government: Striking a balance
News Article 19 May 2004
There are no easy options for reforming council finance but ministers are determined that any changes will be practical and fair, says Nick Raynsford.
Local government: Free to deliver
News Article 19 May 2004
Conservative plans will free councils to concentrate on local issues, writes Caroline Spelman.
Local government: Radical rethink
News Article 19 May 2004
Edward Davey argues that decentralisation requires the re-shaping of Britain’s constitution.
Local government: Focused on the future
News Article 19 May 2004
Despite recent successes the Audit Commission will not be complacent about the need to continue improving local services, writes Frances Stone.
Local government: Peak performance
News Article 19 May 2004
Richard Parsons examines whether the beacon council scheme is spreading best practice between local authorities across the country.
