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The CBI has called for a national forum to be established to help build trust between local authorities and private companies. The CBI published a list of six principles for developing the role of councils as place shapers last week, in a report on transforming local services. The report states a ‘lack of trust between business and local government is still creating a barrier to better working and the delivery of more responsive local public services'. A national forum is recommended to build trust and understanding between commissioners and suppliers, which would also involve the LGA and regional centres of excellence. ‘CBI members believe that focusing on commissioning instead of delivery will allow councils to focus on their wider place-shaping responsibilities,' the report states. Councils should also focus primarily on their role as commissioners of local services, as well as improve procurement and contract management skills, according to the report. The report cites the example of Bracknell Forest BC, which is working with the South East Regional Centre of Excellence to build a regional procurement portal to advertise outsourcing opportunities. The CBI has also warned Gordon Brown not to back down from reforming public services, and has called for the Government to improve the country's infrastructure. Speaking at the CBI's annual dinner, the organisation's president, Martin Broughton, said: ‘We recognise that the Government has to strike a balance between local and national interests, and between the competing demands of democracy and efficiency. ‘But, the effects of weakening infrastructure on the country, and the delays and costs associated with major developments, are continuing to undermine the attractiveness of the UK as a place to do business with.'

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BUSINESS

CBI calls for forum between sectors

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