The death of Big Society?

摘要

Sometimes, it feels like local government is permanently teetering on a precipice. For the last couple of years, that cliff-edge has been largely financial. Who can forget former Audit Commission chief executive Steve Bundred's prediction of 'Armageddon' for public services, for example? This week, it is not a cliff-edge we face, but the dawn of a new era following the end of the 160-year-old district audit service. That even pre-dates editorial director Michael Burton's career at The MU!As ever, with change, there are pros and cons. We would all, I'm sure, welcome the predicted cut to audit fees, and the 40% price cut anticipated will be joyous news for hard-hit councils.