Ben Bradley: I will not be undertaking unconscious bias training – and call on my colleagues to take the same stand

Not only is this type of ‘education’ a nonsense, but the taxpayer will have to pick up the bill for it.

Neil O’Brien: The next algorithm disaster – coming to a Conservative constituency near you. This time, it’s housing growth.

Most Tory MPs will be seeing large increases in the housing targets for their seats, while many Labour MPs see their local targets reduced.

For Johnson and the Conservatives, the power of patriotism is a plus

As with Brexit, the fundamentals of the Tory position are much stronger than they may seem to be.

Sally-Ann Hart: Unitary status for local government is required without further delay

It can provide councils that are more efficient, cost effective, and customer focused, without giving up accountability.

The New Normal will be Very Abnormal Indeed. Here are 15 sets of questions about it.

How prepared are we for strict social distancing for the forseeable future, compulsory masks, closed leisure facilities – and a semi-functioning economy?

Richard Holden: Local elections 1) Will more bricks fall from the Red Wall this May?

Bury, the West Midlands, Dudley and perhaps the Durham PCC polls are well worth keeping an eye on.

Poor value for money of councils’ public health spending exposed

Liverpool City Council has spent an average of £7,222 for each person who lost weight. Kensington and Chelsea has spent £9,957 for each person who drinks less alcohol.