Top performers' fury at jibe over 'inefficiency'

摘要

Top-performing councils have reacted furiously to allegations by local government minister, John Healey, that they are lagging behind in efficiency savings -claims which have put a new strain on central-local relations. The minister claimed 'millions' of householders could get council tax savings of between £36 and £101, if councils were 'more efficient' in delivering services. He named 10 local authorities which he said could offer the biggest cuts in tax bills - including Birmingham City Council, Hampshire CC and Kent CC.