Rupert Barnes: Councils don’t define our local sense – which comes from the inherited character of where we live
Changes in administrative boundaries are resisted because of suspicion that they are seeking to change our identity.
Helen Evans: Housing associations need to work with the Government to boost oportunities for home ownership
We need more people to have their own place to live. But we don’t want to make increasing supply more challenging.
John Fuller: This pandemic has shown that bigger local government does not mean better local government
While national command and control sometimes stumbled, our district councils ensured that we could keep calm and carry on.
Mark Henderson: The boost for shared home ownership is very welcome. Not everyone can afford to buy outright.
This is about basic fairness, and people on lower incomes deserving the same chance to get on the housing ladder.
Douglas Pullen: Zoom has boosted participation in local democracy
In Lichfield, I predict we will see a change with our next cohort of councillors. Those with jobs and young families will find it easier to take part.
Gary Porter: To level up, we need alumni networks for state schools
Our new initiative in South Holland will inspire children from disadvantaged backgrounds that they can succeed.
Switching to more unitary authorities and directly elected mayors must be achieved by consent
There can be benefits to democracy – and efficiency from reform. But change must come from below – not be imposed from the top.
Gary Powell: Conservative councillors should strongly oppose extreme-Left gender politics
To be sacked simply for saying that biological men cannot become biological women is outrageous.
Jay Singh-Sohal: I’m promising our West Midlands communities a robust response to crime
My Labour opponent joined a Black Lives Matter rally in Birmingham during lockdown, to bend the knee alongside those who seek to defund the police.
Gareth Lyon: In defence of district councils
Local identities matter. Rather than abolishing small local authorities, more power should be handed down to them.
Chris Criscione: Financially reckless councils are the exception, not the rule
It would be wrong for the Government to restrict the independence of local authorities to decide on borrowing and commercial investment.
Paul Mercer: Police crime statistics need to be more intelligible and transparent
The Home Office should host a site which contains accurate data for the whole of the UK – and which can be easily accessed for the last ten years.
Judy Terry: Banks must be part of the high street revival
Councils should do more to share premises, such as libraries and office reception areas. So should post offices.
Peter Craske: Community pride in Bexley is stronger than ever
Picking up litter. Helping out neighbours. Community spirit and voluntary effort will continue long after the pandemic is over.
Matthew Barber: The police must tackle non-violent crime too
If the bicycle that is stolen is someone’s only means of getting to work, then there is significant harm.