Conservative Conference
Let’s see the cap ‘gone for good’
The Prime Minister’s decision to scrap the housing borrowing cap gives councils a ‘huge opportunity’ to build homes, says Lord Porter. The Treasury needs to fulfil the promise ahead of the Budget
Strictly housing
Theresa May has lifted the cap on how much councils can borrow against their Housing Revenue Account assets – but more problems lie ahead, says Heather Jameson
soapbox
Now that the annual party conference season is over, Claire Kober says it's time to reflect on what policy commitments have been made. She argues the 'overwhelming emphasis on Brexit seems to have left public policy on the backbenches'.
Domestic decisions
Positivity, pragmatism and long term thinking – the latest Tory conference has left local government with a lot to mull over, as Bob Neill describes
One conference with two messages
Two events run simultaneously at the Conservative Party conference, says Michael Burton. At the main hall plenaries 'all is rosy' , while the 'real world' makes an appearance at the 300 or so fringe sessions.
Dazed and confused
Dan Corry wonders how the 'entirely uncertain' future will unfold now that the party conference tribes have headed home. His conclusion is that instability lies ahead
Seeing the light on fiscal devolution
Boris Johnson has had an epiphany, according to Heather Jameson. While his Conservative Party conference ‘fringe’ session was dismissed as a bit of a damp squib, he has seen the light on fiscal devolution to councils.
Care cash treats the symptoms not the cause of the crisis
Following Matt Hancock's announcement of extra care cash for care, Dr Jonathan Carr-West says the money is not enough to halt the collapse of the system
Boris calls for ‘overdue’ fiscal devolution for councils
Boris Johnson has called for ‘long overdue’ fiscal devolution for local government saying it will help them fund services and encourage more housebuilding.
Concerns raised over new immigration policy
Senior social services managers have expressed concerns over the Conservative Party’s controversial immigration announcement, warning Theresa May’s post-Brexit policy must consider the skills councils need in lower-wage sectors
Conservative conference: Brokenshire ban on cladding
Communities secretary James Brokeneshire has announced changes to building regulations banning the use of combustible materials for all new high rise buildings.
‘Tis the season
As conference season takes shape, LGA chair Lord Porter looks at the critical issues currently facing local government he is hoping will take centre stage
Councils must show how local change can offer solutions that Whitehall cannot
As party conferences conclude for another year, Ben Page surveys the political opinions of the nation and explains what it all means for local government.
Javid: Conservatives must tackle housing
Lack of housing is the biggest domestic issue facing the Conservatives, communities secretary Sajid Javid has said.
Government to press ahead with Universal Credit despite growing criticism
Work and pensions secretary, David Gauke, has committed to pressing ahead with Universal Credit despite growing opposition.
Hammond announces £400m for Northern Powerhouse
Chancellor Philip Hammond has announced an extra £400m for the north of England at the Conservative Party conference.
Brexit and councils will be on the Tory conference agenda
The strongly-represented LGA Conservative Group will have a lot to reflect on during the upcoming annual conference, as its leader, Cllr David Simmonds explains.
May must fan the embers at the Conservative conference
In advance of this year’s Conservative Party Conference in Manchester, Liam Booth-Smith asks if an embattled Theresa May is capable of using her platform address to reignite her premiership by tackling the burning injustices of housing and social care.
The West Midlands - Government's new favourite?
Does the Government's new political direction mean the West Midlands will start to rival Greater Manchester on devolution? Alexandra Jones examines the case
Greening unveils £60m social mobility fund
Justine Greening has unveiled a £60m fund to improve social mobility in six 'opportunity areas'.