Council by-election results from yesterday

The Conservatives lost a seat to an independent in West Dorset but gained a seat from UKIP in Mid Devon.

The police need more power to chase moped thieves

The problem in London is severe, but the Mayor still equivocates.

Council by-election results from yesterday

The Conservatives lost seats in Babergh, Cannock Chase, East Cambridgeshire, Herefordshire, Lewes and North Lanarkshire – but gained a seat in Colchester.

There are also political risks for the Government to agreeing an “exit fee” to the EU

Most people would resent any payments after we cease being members.

Davidson is right to focus on increasing the housing supply

The problem is that until the Conservatives are serious about selling more state land to build attractive housing it is just talk.

Councillor allowances boosted in Cardiff

Chairing a committee is paid at the rate of over £2,000 per meeting.

Helping pensioners to downsize makes sense for everyone

Stamp Duty punishes those who could help free up the housing supply.

Schools should install defibrillators

There is a scandal of Councils wasting huge Public Health budgets – while refusing to fund modest schemes that would provide great benefits.

Councillors still have a key role in recruiting school governors

Despite the growth in academies, finding talented people willing to serve as governors remains crucial.

Localism should mean giving residents the chance to get rid of humps

We should also have local referendums on removing traffic lights.

South Hams Council’s “betrayal” as opportunity for beautiful homes is abandoned

This act of sabotage can only undermine the public trust that is needed to increase the housing supply.

Council by-election results from yesterday

The Conservatives gained a seat from Labour in King’s Lynn and West Norfolk – but lost a seat to them in Worthing.

Pressure grows for council transparency on fire safety

The Information Commissioner also backs openness from housing associations.

Study confirms tower blocks are energy inefficient

Electricity use in a high-rise is nearly two and a half times greater than in a low-rise.

Welsh Government proposes allowing votes for prisoners in council elections

Thousands of inmates could become a significant proportion of the electorate in particular local wards.