David Simmonds: Standards for children in care are improving
Our task is to improve a system that is already very effective, albeit far from perfect.
Nicholas Boys Smith: New homes and places can and should be beautiful
Yesterday’s announcement of Government’s design guidance is a very welcome step in the right direction.
Ian Lewis: The Conservatives must not give up on Manchester, or Sheffield, or Liverpool…
Our message, and our approach to the issues in the cities, needs to be improved.
Council by-election results from yesterday and forthcoming contests
The Conservatives lost a seat to Labour in Luton. But the Conservatives gained a seat from a residents association in Rochford.
Daniel Brown: More young people should offer to be councillors
I understand how public service can be a daunting prospect. But it can be one of the most rewarding moves you ever make.
Gareth Lyon: To end “fake recycling”, bring in the markets and save the planet
If there was genuine competition throughout the collection and processing sector we would see a greater range of products becoming economically viable.
Izzi Seccombe: Conservatives should let local communities take back control
An English Devolution Bill is needed to reignite the process of devolving widespread powers and funding to local areas across the whole country.
Chris Walker: Better housing for older people would also be good news for the NHS
We can ease the social care crisis and release more family-sized homes on to the market.
John Myers: We do not need to give up on places that have fallen behind
If we are serious about rebalancing, we could move the capital from London to Manchester.
Council by-election results from yesterday and forthcoming contests
The Lib Dems gained a seat from the Conservatives in Somerset West & Taunton. But the Conservatives held seats in Canterbury and Wiltshire.
Frances Lasok: Too many of our best campaigners are being diverted off to be councillors
Local government is a most effective mechanism to enact positive change. But it is hugely time-consuming and not the right role for all political activists.
Holly Whitbread: The experience of doorstep campaigning for the Conservatives has dramatically improved
We are canvassing with clear messages which are resonating. Local membership is growing, activists far are more engaged and proud to pound the streets.
Gary Porter: Reflections on four years as the voice of local government
When we work with central government, we improve lives and achieve the best results for our communities.
McVey makes wider home ownership central to the Tory mission again
The message is welcome after the defeatism of her predecessors. But radical measures are needed to free up supply and get attractive new development.
Judy Terry: Greater civility in local politics would help attract more women councillors
Some of the abuse is nothing short of bullying. This is a threat to freedom of speech. We should value debating different views.