Stonewall controversy: More views from Conservative Police and Crime Commissioners

The PCCs for Suffolk, Dorset, Avon and Somerset, Hertfordshire and Wiltshire strongly back the stance taken by their colleague in Surrey. Other were less emphatic.

Harry Fone: A browse through council contracts shows that extravagant spending continues

Free laptops for EU conferences. Town Hall Pravdas. Plus a “Brewery and Visitor Centre” on the Isle of Wight.

Leading Conservative councils are withdrawing their support for Stonewall

Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Wiltshire have cut off funding. Some Labour councils have also pulled out.

Andy Street: The BBC’s Birmingham plans represent a cultural levelling up that this country needs

There are very, very few shows where you can see life here on your screens, or hear our accents.

David Sidwick: Police and Crime Commissioners should not be too cosy with Chief Constables

Operational independence is nothing to do with electing an independent candidate as a PCC.

Faye Purbrick: Don’t split Somerset in half

A single unitary model has worked well in those areas that have adopted it in recent years, including Dorset, Wiltshire, and Buckinghamshire.

Gareth Streeter: An intelligent spending review could halt the Liberal Democrats in their tracks in the South West

More investment in rural transport and digital infrastructure and a voice for our fisherman would make a big difference to local campaigns.

David Sidwick: The facts show you are safer with a Conservative Police and Crime Commissioner

Comparing the data of the best and worst performing forces, we can see the difference made by applying Peelian principles.

Bob Seely: Saving Britain billions. Ideas for the contenders in this leadership contest.

This is a contribution to the debate – now let’s see what the candidates offer during the week ahead.

The local elections revisited: an analysis of results in the South West

The long-awaited Liberal Democrat revival in their traditional strongholds finally transpired. But the independents also made big gains.

Local elections: The Conservative/Labour battlegrounds

York, Derby High Peak, Gravesham, Amber Valley, and Basildon are among the councils where the Tories face losing power.

Katrina Wood: Two separate unitary councils is the best deal for Buckinghamshire

This would both save money and provide a better focus on local communities.