LGA Conservative Group Report & Review 2016/2017 Contents:

4. Message from the Chairman of the LGA and the Acting LGA Conservative Group Leader 6. LGA Conservative Group Executive 2016/2017 8. Brexit: what has the LGA been doing? 10. What is the LGA and what has it done for my council? 12. The 2017 Local elections 13. Be a Councillor – Finding the next generation of councillors 15. Who are my Conservative LGA Board representatives – How can I get involved? 16. Children and Young People Board 17. City Regions Board 18. Community Wellbeing Board 19. Culture, Tourism and Sport Board 20. Environment, Economy, Housing and Transport Board 21. Improvement and Innovation Board 22. People and Places Board 23. Resources Board 24. Safer and Stronger Communities Board 25. Fire Services Management Committee and Fire Commission 26. What is sector-led improvement and how can it benefit my council? 29. LGA Conservative Group Best Practice Directory 30. The Conservative Group Office

LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 3 Message from the Chairman of the LGA and the Acting LGA Conservative Group Leader

The past twelve months have certainly We have worked successfully with Sajid on David made an enormous contribution to In order to get out of London we have, been eventful for Conservatives, a range issues but we would particularly like the LGA as both a former Chairman of over the past year, organised a number both locally and nationally, as we to thank him for his support in relation to the People and Places Board and then as of briefing seminars around the country have experienced the vote to leave adult social care funding. This culminated group leader and LGA Vice Chairman. in partnership with the Conservative the European Union and its aftermath, in the announcement by the Chancellor in Councillors’ Association. the appointment of as the Budget of an extra £2 billion in funding Prior to becoming our group leader he was Prime Minister and, most recently, for social care over the next three years, also a successful Chairman of the County These events cover a variety of policy and the General Election. including £1 billion in 2017/2018. Councils’ Network. campaigning issues and we are already planning future seminars, so if you are The impact of Brexit on local government, Over the past year we also worked closely David’s many years of service to local interested in hosting one please do let progress towards the localisation of with Gavin Barwell in the lead-up to and the government and charitable services were us know. business rates by 2020, moves towards aftermath of the publication of the Housing recognised by the awarding of a CBE in greater devolution around the country White Paper, which contained many the New Year’s Honours list. The LGA tries to be as accessible as possible (as evidenced by the first Mayoral elections proposals that we were able to welcome to all of our members and as part of this The purpose of this annual report is to which took place in May), and the future (such as greater flexibility in relation to it has opened up its regular Councillors’ provide you with information on the LGA’s funding of adult social care, to name just a planning fees). Lord Porter of Spalding CBE Forum meetings to all members who wish activity over the past year, both corporately few issues, have kept the LGA and the LGA to attend. and within the Conservative Group. Conservative Group incredibly busy over Whilst of course sorry that Gavin lost his seat at the General Election, we were delighted The Councillors’ Forum is often attended the past year. These matters are covered in We hope that you will find it interesting and that he was almost immediately appointed by Ministerial speakers – we have recently greater detail throughout the report. we would particularly draw your attention as the Prime Minister’s new Chief of Staff. welcomed Sajid Javid and David Mowat, the to the reports of our lead members on the To effectively lobby on such issues it has former Social Care Minister, and are looking LGA’s various policy Boards. been essential for us to maintain strong It is very encouraging that someone with forward to welcoming , Secretary such a background in local government, of State for Business, Energy and Industrial and close relations with Ministerial teams These summaries outline how they have and with whom we have a strong and Strategy, to our July meeting – whilst the across Whitehall. provided a strong Conservative voice established relationship, has been appointed Conservative Group meeting beforehand within the LGA, how they have worked with Of course, DCLG is the department with to such an important position. We look offers an ideal opportunity for us to discuss Ministers across a range of Government whom we have the closest relationship forward to continuing to work with Gavin key issues in a private political setting. departments and the key lobbying successes and having established excellent relations in his new role. that they have achieved on your behalf over with Sajid Javid following his appointment If you are interested in attending the the past year. as Secretary of State last year we were Following the reshuffle, we welcome Councillors’ Forum please contact the as the new Housing Minister, Group Office. delighted when he was re-appointed in the In addition to this annual report the congratulate Marcus Jones and Lord recent reshuffle. Conservative Group also sends out a Bourne on their re-appointment as DCLG Cllr David Simmonds CBE We would like to end by thanking you, our monthly email bulletin to update you on key In the same way as we did with Eric Pickles Ministers, welcome Jake Berry as the new fellow Conservative councillors, for all that policy announcements, lobbying activity, and Greg Clark, when Parliament sits we Parliamentary Under Secretary of State and you have done for your communities and consultations and to alert you to upcoming have held weekly meetings with Sajid and wish Andrew Percy all the best following his for our Party over the past year. events. We hope that you find these his Ministerial colleagues over the past year. departure from the Government. bulletins useful and we would welcome any In both the local elections and the General These meetings, which have also been We look forward to continuing to work suggestions that you may have as to how Election, Conservative councillors proved attended by Cllr Paul Carter (the Chairman closely with Sajid and his ministerial team they could be further improved. once again that we are the backbone of the County Councils’ Network), over the coming year. of our party. As the largest party in local The LGA Conservative Group is also on Cllr Neil Clarke (the outgoing Chairman of government you can rest assured that your Twitter so please follow us at @lgacons for the District Councils’ Network), Cllr Teresa We would like to take this opportunity to voice will continue to be heard loud and all the very latest news and views. O’Neill (Leader of the Conservative Group place on record our thanks to Cllr David clear over the coming year both within the on London Councils) and Cllr Rory Love Hodge who, following major surgery last LGA and across Whitehall. (Chairman of the Conservative Councillors’ year, stood down as the Leader of the Association) have been used by Sajid to Conservative Group in March, for his many brief and consult on key issues whilst also years of service to Conservative local allowing us to raise issues on your behalf. government.

4 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 5 LGA Conservative Group Executive 2016/2017

The LGA Conservative Group Executive is elected annually and is the body which steers and takes decisions on behalf of the LGA Conservative Group.

A new team is elected in June of each year and the elected members for the past year (2016/2017) were:

LGA Chairman Group Leader Acting Group Leader County Council Executive Member Non-Met District London Borough Council Metropolitan District Council Unitary Council Executive Member (and LGA Vice Chairman) – to March 17 (and LGA Vice Chairman) – from March 17 (and LGA Deputy Chairman since March 2017) Council Executive Member Executive Member Executive Member Cllr Paul Bettison OBE Lord Porter of Spalding CBE (originally elected as Deputy Group Leader) South Holland District Council Cllr David Hodge CBE Cllr Colin Noble (and LGA Deputy Chairman) Cllr Teresa O’Neill OBE Cllr Robert Light Bracknell Forest Surrey County Council Cllr David Simmonds CBE Suffolk County Council Cllr Peter Fleming OBE London Borough of Bexley Kirklees Metropolitan Borough Council London Borough of Hillingdon Sevenoaks District Council Borough Council

‘At large’ Executive Members i Further information For all the latest news on the LGA Conservative Group please visit our website: www.local.gov.uk/lga-conservatives

Cllr Sean Anstee Cllr Philip Atkins OBE Cllr Kevin Bentley Baroness Couttie of Downe (and LGA Deputy Chairman) Staffordshire County Council Essex County Council (and LGA Deputy Chairman) Trafford Metropolitan Westminster City Council Borough Council

6 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 7 Brexit: what has the LGA been doing?

Reflecting the different views of the Key achievements (b) Developing a new legal base for We believe that the following should be • Funding is easier to manage: domestic Potential benefits are, for example, reducing councillors and councils who make up our local government the core principles for a new model of redesign should include a simplified and unnecessary and burdensome red tape membership, the LGA remained neutral to date: regional funding: more proportionate approach to financial (eg, the freedom to move towards a during the Brexit referendum last year, but The Government’s proposed Great Repeal management, to allow for shorter time simplified procurement process) To date the LGA has achieved two key wins. following the result we have worked hard Bill means that, post-Brexit, all existing EU • Local determination and delivery: frames for decision authorisation and legislation can be scrutinised and decisions domestic redesign should support the As previously noted, we see this as to ensure that local government’s voice is Firstly, following strong lobbying by us the payment. taken by Parliament as to which aspects principle of a locally-led, single, place-based an opportunity to further develop the heard during the negotiations. Chancellor of the Exchequer announced at of those laws are to be retained, amended strategy established around the needs • Funding of at least equal value: devolution agenda which the Government last year’s Conservative Party Conference or removed from UK legislation. of people. the amount of funding for domestic has actively pursued since 2010. that local areas with existing EU funding replacement should be at least £5.3 billion arrangements agreed at the point that To facilitate this process, the LGA has • Funding is delivered over a stable period: for and £1.8 billion for Wales, For example, to improve opportunities for we leave the EU will receive replacement developed a comprehensive dataset the current EU funding programme is matching current ESIF funding levels for ‘left behind’ communities we are calling funding following our departure. of those EU decisions, regulations and allocated over a seven-year period. This is 2014-2020. on the Government to reform Whitehall’s directives that affect local government, regarded as a significant benefit as it allows national approach to commissioning Secondly, and again following LGA lobbying, with a particular focus on procurement, for long-term planning beyond normal employment and skills funding (which is the Government has confirmed that local (d) Addressing place-based impacts regulatory services, the environment, domestic funding and political cycles. worth £10.5 billion a year). government will be fully involved in the waste services and workforce issues. • Maximum integration with other Along with Government departments, the discussions relating to our departure from It is currently fragmented, costly and fails funding streams: domestic redesign LGA is assessing the potential and varied the EU. to address the particular challenges faced should encourage integrated financial impact and opportunities of Brexit at the (c) Localising regional funding in local areas. A more integrated approach support to increase sustainable growth local level, in both urban and rural areas. would be based around groups of councils Following the Chancellor’s announcement and jobs within local areas. This will avoid Key issues for local working with businesses and other partners that areas with existing EU funding the policy silos, duplications, gaps and Potential challenges are, for example, government: to create single, place-based plans tailored arrangements signed off when we leave inconsistencies which have characterised possible labour shortages affecting both the to local needs. The Government has We have identified the following as being the EU will receive replacement funding earlier schemes. public and private sectors (for example, in confirmed that local the key issues for local government, and after our departure, the challenge now is the care sector, seasonal unskilled work, etc) as such they are currently the focus of to create a domestic replacement for EU government will be our work in relation to Brexit: regional aid funding which is based on fully involved in the local rather than Whitehall or EU rules. discussions relating (a) Autonomy of local government Long before the referendum, the LGA had consistently argued for much greater local Building on the Government’s ambitious to our departure control over the management, design and devolution agenda, we believe that delivery of such schemes. from the EU. responsibilities repatriated from the EU cannot simply be kept in Whitehall.

As such, a presumption in favour of subsidiarity must apply to all levels of government, with powers being devolved i and decisions taken as close to local people as possible. Your views Further information In order to support our evidence gathering on the impact For all the latest news on how Brexit is impacting of Brexit on local areas, the LGA is inviting feedback from on local government, and updates on the LGA’s councils and councillors. Please email: activity in relation to this, visit our dedicated website: [email protected] www.local.gov.uk/brexit

8 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 9 What is the LGA and what has it done for my council?

The LGA is a politically-led, • A £50 million annual fund for councils to Parliamentary lobbying and support school improvement and a £148 cross-party organisation million fund to support failing schools. influencing legislation

which: • A decision by the Government, announced The LGA works closely with Parliamentarians • Lobbies on the key financial and policy by Sajid Javid at the LGA Councillors’ to ensure the concerns of our members decisions which affect your council. Forum meeting earlier this year, to drop are represented in national policy debates. proposals to transfer responsibility for In 2016 we were quoted 953 times in • Presses for greater powers to be devolved Attendance Allowance to councils as Parliamentary debates, Select Committees from Whitehall to local government. part of the further localisation of business and questions. We sought to influence • Speaks with one voice through local, rates. £5.5 billion is currently spent on 10 pieces of legislation, including the regional and national media to promote Attendance Allowance. Homelessness Reduction Bill, the Local Government Finance Bill, the Children and the good things that councils are doing • Provision in the Local Government Finance Social Work Bill and the Neighbourhood and defend local government’s reputation. Bill for the Government to pay local Planning Bill. Our Parliamentary ‘wins’ for authorities for the cost of business rates • Supports councils to drive innovation and local government over the past year have appeals. Currently, local authorities are improvement and shares best practice included the following successes: in order to help councils become more forced to hold back around £2.5 billion to efficient and effective. manage the risk of successful appeals. As a result of our work on the Homelessness Reduction Bill major changes were made, • Negotiates fair pay and pensions • An announcement from Government with proposed duties on councils to secure Conference and events Practical support settlements and provides advice on that it would no longer legislate to force i accommodation for those at risk being for councils workforce matters to councils. all schools to become academies. Councillors and officers from our member amended to be more flexible. We also For more information on this support We estimated that forced academisation councils have access to more than 120 free secured a commitment from the Government There is a wide range of support available please contact the Conservative Over the past five years we have reduced of all schools would have cost all councils or discounted events, from small seminars to your council. A regionally-based Principal Group Office. our total subscription income by 30 per cent up to £380 million by 2020. to fully fund the new duties and this led to to large residential conferences. Over 60 Adviser acts as your first non-political point and this year we have, again, frozen our the announcement of £61 million to fund • Significant wins secured in the Housing per cent of our events over the past year of call with the LGA, advising on the support [email protected] subscription levels. the cost burdens. White Paper, including a minimum 20 per were free to attend and half were held and services available and regularly visiting outside London. As a result of our lobbying over the past year cent increase in funding for local planning The Children and Social Work Bill had your authority. In addition you can access: the LGA has secured a number of ‘wins’ and teams, a new £45 million Land Release provisions allowing the Secretary of State to • Support from specialist advisers across additional funding for our member councils, Fund for councils and flexibilities to amend children’s social care legislation in a Promoting local a range of policy areas from housing to including the following: establish local development corporations. council area in intervention without proper consultation or consent. We worked with government in the media health and social care, children’s services • £700 million for councils by 2020/2021 to • £2 billion of new money over the next Parliamentarians and the Government to to communications. help local areas recover from the damage As the national voice of local government, three years to protect social care services remove this. caused by last winter’s flooding. the LGA is uniquely placed to provide a • On-the-day briefings covering all major for older and disabled people, with £1 strong voice for councils as the national government announcements, including billion of this allocated in 2017/2018. • A £250 million pothole fund, announced Working with the Government and press office for local government – a 24/7, the Budget, Queen’s Speech and This is a direct result of us leading, with by the Government following our Parliamentarians, we helped shape the 365 days a year service committed to legislation affecting local government. others, a sustained campaign. sustained campaign. Policing and Crime Bill to ensure that licensing authorities can take into account protecting and promoting the interests • Free legal advice and opinions. • £690 million for new local transport • Support to deliver ‘Ambition for Libraries,’ the potentially negative impact of having of councils. • Free access to advice on pay, pensions projects to improve congestion on roads including £4 million for councils. gambling premises clustered in an area when In 2016, the LGA achieved 2,170 separate and employment. and public transport. making licensing decisions. The LGA Conservative Group can provide, pieces of national coverage, together with a • Discounts on Microsoft and Adobe upon request, a briefing of how LGA activity further 35,563 articles published in regional, software licences through participating has specifically benefited your council over local and trade media. Our spokesmen, resellers. the past year. from councils up and down the country, were interviewed 217 times by national broadcast media.

10 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 11 The 2017 Be a Councillor Local elections Finding the next generation of councillors

The local elections consolidated our There were also contests for elected mayors The results in the Tees Valley and West position as both the largest party in local in and , Greater Midlands are particularly encouraging as Cllr Jo Beavis, recently elected to Essex County Council, government and the largest political Manchester, Liverpool City, Tees Valley, the they show that Conservatives can win group at the LGA as we gained just under West of England and the West Midlands. in urban areas traditionally been seen as has been closely involved with the programme: 400 seats in England and Wales and made Labour’s heartlands. substantial progress in Scotland. Congratulations are due to Andy Street for How do we convey the enthusiasm of “Never has there been a more interesting time to ‘Be a Councillor.’ winning in the West Midlands, to Cllr James The changes in the number of councillors existing councillors to a new generation Housing, health, social care, community wellbeing and devolution Particular congratulations are due to our Palmer for winning in Cambridgeshire and councils controlled for each party by persuading people who are capable, dominate the headlines as we, as councillors, shape the agenda within groups in Cambridgeshire, Derbyshire, and Peterborough, to Cllr Ben Houchen following this year’s local elections are vibrant and energetic that becoming our communities. East Sussex, Gloucestershire, Lancashire, for winning in Tees Valley and to Cllr Tim summarised below: a councillor is a worthwhile and the Isle of Wight, Norfolk, Lincolnshire, Bowles for winning in the West of England. rewarding experience? Monmouthshire, Suffolk and Warwickshire, Councillors have the democratic mandate to be local leaders of place. where we gained overall control of Cllr Sean Anstee, our LGA Deputy Chairman, The LGA Conservative Group seeks to ‘Be a Councillor’ is helping to drive that vision for the future in searching the council. fought a strong battle against Andy Burnham answer this question through its participation for new talent and encouraging more people to be councillors. Please help in Greater Manchester, as did Tony Caldeira in the LGA’s corporate Be a Councillor UKIP lost every single seat that they were in the Liverpool City Region. the LGA to help you and your community by encouraging more people to campaign which publicises the role of the come forward to represent their communities as councillors.” defending, Labour suffered net losses for councillor and encourages people who are a third year in a row, whilst the Liberal engaged in their communities to consider Democrats also had a net loss of seats. standing for election.

Of course it is the electorate who ultimately decides who is elected but this campaign highlights how skills gained through experiences as diverse as raising a family, caring for a disabled relative, volunteering, It is never too early to plan for the next set of local elections, so please do visit the website to see how we can help you recruit your running a business, or being active in a next generation of candidates and councillors. community or voluntary group could help Councils If you would like further information about the campaign and how you can help make you a successful councillor. in your local area, or if you have good practice that you would like to share from Conservatives Labour Lib Dems UKIP Others NOC Total your local association or group, please do email us at: In recent years we have worked with the Before 189 108 7 0 4 65 373 Conservative Party to reach out to new [email protected] people in a number of ways, ranging from After 200 104 7 0 4 58 373 funding mailshots to attract new candidates to holding events where they can speak to Change +11 -4 - - - -7 0 experienced councillors about the role.

Constituency associations and council groups can also make use of The X Factor: i Seats A talent spotter’s guide for local elections The Be a Conservative Councillor guide can be downloaded from the and the Be a Councillor brochure for LGA Conservative Group website, with hard copies also available on request. prospective candidates which includes Conservatives Labour Lib Dems UKIP Others Total The Be a Councillor page on the LGA website provides further detailed information case studies, information on the role of the and resources, including the Be a Councillor toolkit for councils and e-learning: Before 8526 6369 1761 431 1905 18992 councillor, legal requirements for standing and other useful information. www.beacouncillor.co.uk After 8920 6164 1734 316 1835 18969

Change +394 -205 -27 -115 -70 -23

You can also follow the Be a Councillor campaign at www.twitter.com/beacouncillor

12 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 13 Who are my Conservative LGA Board representatives How can I get involved?

The LGA is a politically-led organisation Nominations forms are sent to each and the members who serve on its policy Conservative council group leader and Boards are responsible for developing they are invited to nominate up to three and overseeing its lobbying and policy councillors from their group. How to submit an formulation across all the key policy areas application: that local government is responsible for. Each year we are heavily oversubscribed and so unfortunately we cannot offer a place 1. Download the nomination The LGA’s political groups make annual to everyone who is nominated. However, form from: www.local.gov.uk/ appointments to the Boards with the overall vacancies do occur throughout the year and lga-conservatives or ask your proportionality figures determining how we keep every application form on file for group leader for a form or request many lead positions and places they are consideration as and when these occur. one from the LGA Conservative entitled to. Group Office. In making the appointments the LGA The following pages include summaries Conservative Group Leader considers a 2. Fill in your contact details, from our Conservative lead members number of factors. The areas of expertise your areas of interest and outlining the work that they and their and supporting statement are obviously expertise and write a short colleagues have undertaken on your important and we are very careful to supporting statement. behalf over the past year. ensure that our appointments reflect our 3. Give the completed form to your geographical strengths across the various group leader to countersign. For more detailed information on each tiers of local government. Board please visit the webpage link that 4. Ensure that the form is returned to is provided at the bottom of each of Whilst there has been a perception amongst the Conservative Group Office no these sections. some councillors that the appointments later than Monday 10th July 2017. are biased towards the South of England, Conservative councillors are appointed to detailed analysis each year shows that Once the appointments have been serve on these Boards annually. Nomination overall they reflect the representation of finalised we will write to everyone forms are sent to group leaders in June, the Conservative councillors geographically. who has applied to let them know appointments are made in July and take Ultimately we want a strong and varied whether or not they have been effect at the start of the new LGA year on team which is reflective of Conservative st successful. 1 September. councillors across the country.

LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 15 Children and Young People Board City Regions Board Cllr Roy Perry Cllr Robert Light

The Children and Young People Board is We were therefore delighted that the The City Regions Board has responsibility Continuing the devolution theme, the Board concerned with the wellbeing of children Government removed provisions which for LGA activity in relation to growth, is working closely with the Department for and young people, including education, would have allowed the Secretary of State to transport, infrastructure, skills and wider Work and Pensions on the new Work and social care and careers. make these decisions on behalf of councils public service reform. Its membership Health Programme (WHP). This programme in intervention. is drawn from the Core and Key Cities, is designed to assist the long-term The proposed new national formula for SIGOMA and the London Boroughs. unemployed into work with as much local schools funding was a key issue for the More than 750 children have come to the government involvement as possible. Board over the past year but also a difficult UK from the Calais refugee camp since The City Regions Board was created in one due to the fact that some member October 2016. While the majority of these 2014 following changes to the LGA’s Ten devolution deal areas are currently authorities were due to be net winners children were reunited with family under the governance structures. Its objective is to working bilaterally with DWP on the design whilst others were net losers. Dublin Treaty, approximately 200 children support councils in urban and metropolitan of the programme in their localities. were placed in local authority care under areas by ensuring that they have the legal Moreover, even those who gained overall the ‘Dubs Amendment.’ and financial autonomy to drive growth and Take up of the LGA’s devolution offer, drawn faced specific issues since small and rural support their residents. up in partnership with our colleagues on primary schools with less than 200 pupils Councils continue to demonstrate the People and Places Board, remains often lost out from the application of a rigid tremendous leadership in resettling Cllr Roy Perry Our work programme over the past year excellent. Working closely with the LGA Cllr Robert Light national formula. these children, with the number of has focused particularly on devolution, skills Conservative Group Office, we provided unaccompanied asylum seeking children and employment and infrastructure. As part support, guidance and training to a number In particular, we raised concerns about living in England increasing by more than of this we have been particularly keen to of the Conservative candidates who stood in the proposed timeline for its introduction, 50 per cent in the last year. ensure that we have a robust evidence base the Combined Authority Mayoral elections specifically around the transitional or to promote the benefits of devolution. in May. ‘soft’ formula in 2018-2019 before the The Board led various successful sessions introduction a ‘hard’ formula’ in 2019-2020 at the annual National Children and To facilitate this we were co-funders of the My colleague on the Board, Cllr Sean as this would have been challenging for all Adult Services Conference in November. RSA’s Inclusive Growth Commission, whose Anstee, the Leader of Trafford Council, schools, but particularly those that were Topics covered included emerging research final report was published in March and is stood in the Greater Manchester contest facing a reduction in funding. on the effectiveness of different models in available on their website. and finished a credible second to Andy driving children’s services improvement, Burnham after running a strong campaign We were therefore pleased that the life chances and family stability, what works The Commission recommends that based on his record as a local leader. Conservative Party’s General Election in preventing child abuse and neglect and combined authorities be given much manifesto stated that there would be tackling radicalisation in schools. greater control over – and responsibility As areas move towards the implementation changes to the national funding formula for – public expenditure in their areas as part phase of devolution, we are increasingly to ensure that no school loses out whilst We also held a lively Education Question of a programme of new social contracts focused on developing and sharing also pledging to increase the overall schools Time debate, met with the then Children’s with central government to pursue growth. best practice. budget by £4 billion by 2022. Minister, Edward Timpson, and the National Schools Commissioner, Sir David Carter. It also recommends that post-Brexit As part of this process we have worked with The major piece of legislation that we repatriated European Structural and the Centre for Public Scrutiny to produce have focused on over the past year is the Investment Funds should be used as the Overview and Scrutiny in combined Children and Social Work Bill. basis of a new growth fund with £76 billion authorities – a plain English guide to help of funding to pump-prime growth-related members to play an active and informed The LGA briefed actively throughout its interventions over the next 20 years. role in both scrutinising and contributing to Parliamentary process and we achieved new governance arrangements. The guide a number of important concessions. is available on the Centre for Public Scrutiny’s website. In particular, we argued that applications for powers to test new ways of working i i should always be council-led, allowing local www.local.gov.uk/topics/ www.local.gov.uk/ authorities to make decisions based on the children-and-young-people city-regions-board needs of local children and young people that they know best.

16 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 17 Community Wellbeing Board Culture, Tourism and Sport Board Cllr Izzi Seccombe OBE Cllr Paul Bettison OBE

The Community Wellbeing Board is Board members once again played an active The Culture, Tourism and Sport Board has Meanwhile, my Conservative colleague on responsible for LGA activity in relation role at the National Children and Adult responsibility for LGA activity in the areas the Board, Cllr Colin Organ, has worked to the wellbeing of adults, public health, Services Conference in Manchester through of culture, tourism and sport, including closely with the Tourism Alliance Board to mental health, lifelong learning, media work, chairing sessions and speaking the legacy of the 2012 Olympic Games. discuss a number of key issues currently training, health and social care. at high profile sub-plenaries. As well as the impacting on the tourism industry, including key issue of securing adequate funding for I am delighted that the LGA and Arts Council the likely implications of our exit from the The LGA has led efforts in recent years to adult social care, we focused on a wide England have recently updated their European Union. highlight the significant pressures facing variety of subjects ranging from workforce shared statement of purpose agreement. adult social care and the need for central development issues to Sustainability and The agreement outlines how each In February, we held another successful government to adequately fund the system. Transformation Plans. organisation will work with each other Culture, Tourism and Sport annual nationally to support a place based conference in Bristol. The announcement in the Budget of £2 The first national Come Back to Social approach to local cultural offers. billion in funding for adult social care Work programme – led by the LGA, the Keynote speakers included Dame Kelly therefore marks a significant step towards Department of Health and the Department Our excellent working relationship with Holmes, Tracey Crouch MP, the Under protecting services for the most vulnerable for Education – has been successful in Arts Council England was reflected in Secretary of State for Sport, Tourism and in our communities over the next few years. attracting talented and qualified social Cllr Izzi Seccombe OBE the comments made by Paul Bristow, Heritage, Viscountess Penelope Cobham Cllr Paul Bettison OBE workers back into local government and their Director of Strategic Partnerships, CBE from Visit England, Shelia Healey from Whilst strongly welcoming this both departments are keen to run further at a recent Board meeting when he stated Arts Council England and Duncan Wilson, announcement, we are have been clear programmes. that local government remains a key the Chief Executive of Historic England. that councils must have full flexibility over delivery partner for the organisation. how they use the funding to ensure that it Finally, a key success on behalf of member The conference, which has received genuinely helps people live independently councils came when we successfully Over the past year we have also worked excellent feedback from delegates, provided in their communities whilst also providing supported the National Aids Trust in their closely with Sport England on the delivery an ideal opportunity for members and support to older people and those with legal challenge against NHS England’s of their strategy Towards an Active Nation officers to discuss key issues, network mental health conditions and learning and decision that it did not have the power 2016-2021, helping to ensure that councils and share best practice. physical difficulties. to commission the drug PrEP for those and local partners are central to their plans We continue to work with Sports England with HIV. to promote exercise and activity and to Adult social care is vital in its own right, re-balance funding away from national and Arts Council England to deliver the as well as easing pressure on the NHS. Their argument was that councils were organisations and towards local bodies. Leadership Essentials Sports programme Councils want to give people the best responsible for preventative medicine. and the Leadership Essentials Culture possible chance of staying out of hospital The costs alone of commissioning would As Deputy Chairman of the Board, I Programme. and to get them home quickly if a hospital have been £20 million. The Court of Appeal was pleased to have the opportunity to These events, organised in partnership stay is necessary. upheld the High Court’s decision that NHS give evidence on behalf of the LGA to with our partners, aim to support portfolio England did, in law, have the power to the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs As helpful as this immediate injection of holders and to help councils meet the commission PrEP. Committee, with a particular focus on funding is, short-term pressures remain and councils and Local Economic Partnerships challenges facing sport and cultural services. the challenge of finding a long-term solution support for and promotion of tourism as a to the social care crisis is far from over. key sector for rural economic growth.

The Government’s commitment to I took this opportunity to highlight the publishing a Green Paper to explore options need for councils to have access to the for a long-term solution is a welcome necessary powers to allow them to create recognition of this, The Board is clear that i the conditions for the growth of the visitor i we in local government need to play a economy – one of the country’s fastest fundamental part in the discussions and www.local.gov.uk/ growing sectors. www.local.gov.uk/ that all options need to be on the table. community-wellbeing-board- topics/culture-tourism- Influencing this will be a key priority for local-government-association leisure-and-sport the Board over the coming year.

18 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 19 Environment, Economy, Improvement and Innovation Board Housing and Transport Board Cllr William Nunn Cllr Martin Tett

The Environment, Economy, Housing As part of this process we responded The Improvement and Innovation Similarly, shared services have developed and Transport Board provides strategic to a call for evidence by providing local Board has responsibility for LGA activity significantly in recent years, allowing oversight of the LGA’s policy, regulatory government’s perspective on a variety of in relation to improving councils’ councils to pool resources and expertise and improvement activity in relation to infrastructure issues. In particular, we urged performance, including peer support and to develop a huge range of high quality, the economy, skills and employment, the Commission to consider how greater mentoring, and also relations with the efficient services. the environment, transport, housing and devolution of funding could ensure that the various central bodies who contribute planning, waste and climate change. country’s infrastructure is as well maintained to that process. The LGA maintains a shared services map and efficient as possible. which provides detailed information on The Housing White Paper, Fixing our broken Peer challenge is a key part of the LGA’s innovation and new ways of working from housing market, was launched this year and The Board submitted evidence to the offer to councils and its success as a tool across the country. As more devolution includes plans to boost housing supply and Transport Select Committee’s inquiry into for improvement within local government deals are agreed it is essential that councils increase affordability across the country. urban congestion, as part of which we is well established. work even more closely together to deliver reiterated the LGA’s longstanding case for the next generation of public services. We were pleased to see that a number of councils to have the power to manage In September 2016 we hosted a Member You can view the map on the LGA website recommendations made in the LGA’s recent street works. Peer Conference in Birmingham attended by entering ‘shared services’ in the Housing Commission report were taken on Cllr Martin Tett by those councillors who contribute their Cllr William Nunn A notable achievement on behalf of search engine. board, such as removing the starter homes time, experience and expertise to sector-led councils came In September 2016 when the requirement and increased flexibility in improvement. In the New Year we had the welcome Board, in conjunction with the LGA’s legal relation to planning fees. announcement of an expansion to the team, supported the Treasury in successfully Over 100 peers attended from all regions However, we will continue to push for the One Public Estate Programme (OPE) with defending a judicial review of the VAT and it was an opportunity to network, housing borrowing cap to be lifted and for a further 79 councils in 17 partnerships exemption for council commercial discuss issues both within political groups councils to be able to keep 100 per cent joining OPE. waste services. and cross-party, receive updates on the of the receipts from Right to Buy sales so LGA’s own improvement plans and attend These partnerships have been allocated that councils can reinvest in building the I am grateful for the engagement shown briefing sessions on work areas supported over £2 million in funding in 2016/2017 to affordable homes that our communities need. by Government Ministers in relation to the many policy areas covered by the Board. by peers. work collaboratively on land and property Also on housing, during the progress of initiatives, generating new jobs and homes, the Homelessness Reduction Bill through Over the course of the year I have had The success of the peer system relies creating more joined up services for local Parliament our lobbying helped to secure particularly useful meetings with Gavin on experienced councillors putting their communities and delivering savings for over £60 million in funding to meet Barwell, the then Housing Minister and names forward. If you feel that you have the taxpayer. new duties. both Therese Coffey and Lord Gardiner, the necessary experience and skills for the Parliamentary Under Secretary of States at role please contact the LGA Conservative At the same time, the existing 43 OPE The Government also listened to our calls the Department for Environment, Food and Group Office to obtain further information partnerships also had the opportunity to by committing to review its implementation Rural Affairs, in relation to flooding, rural about the process for becoming an apply for additional funding to expand their no later than two years after the issues, air quality and waste management. accredited peer. current programmes. As a result of this a commencement of the Bill’s substantive further £1.8 million has been allocated to clauses. In recognition of the pressures on council councils across 21 existing partnerships in budgets, the LGA is always keen to show Over the past year the Board has engaged 2017/2018. how innovative and collaborative working with the National Infrastructure Commission can save money and often improve and their work on producing the National outcomes. Infrastructure Assessment, which will outline the long-term infrastructure needs of An example of this is the report on shared the country. i management that we produced last year i www.local.gov.uk/ which showed how 45 councils in 20 environment-economy- partnerships have already delivered savings www.local.gov.uk/ housing-and-transport-board of over £60 million through shared chief improvement-board executives and shared management teams.

20 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 21 People and Places Board Resources Board Cllr Mark Hawthorne MBE Cllr John Fuller

The People and Places Board is I would encourage colleagues to check it The Resources Board is responsible for Our lobbying has involved a series of responsible for LGA activity on growth, out at: www.local.gov.uk/devolution shaping and developing the LGA’s policies media appearances, including on Radio 4’s transport, infrastructure, skills and wider and programmes in relation to local Money Box, highlighting councils’ key role Meanwhile, as part of the LGA’s ‘Up to public service reform. Its membership is government finance; welfare reform; in mitigating transition effects for the most Speed’ campaign, which aims to ensure drawn from the CCN, the DCN and non- European structural investment funding affected businesses in each locality, which that every resident and business has access county unitary councils who are outside and workforce issues. were subsequently provided for in the to faster broadband, I was delighted to those bodies. March budget. welcome Sharon White, the Chief Executive This past year has seen us focus on some of Over the past year, the LGA has carried out of Ofcom, to speak at our January Board the key issues facing the sector, including: We responded to the consultation on the a wide-ranging array of work in relation to meeting. provisional 2017/2018 local government devolution and has continued to develop • The continuing funding pressures affecting We discussed, amongst other things, the finance settlement. We highlighted the and deliver bespoke offers of support for adult social care. need to achieve equality of access to big pressures facing adult social care and areas that are developing devolution broadband and in particular the need to • The design of the 100% retention of called for funding to address this. We were proposals and implementing devolution deals. secure adequate mobile coverage in business rates by 2019. pleased that the Budget included provision Areas in which we have actively supported rural areas. for £2 billion of extra funding over the next Cllr Mark Hawthorne MBE • Initial work on the related design and Cllr John Fuller councils include leadership development in three years for adult social care, including In March there was good news for the review of the fair funding formula. relation to new governance arrangements, £1 billion in 2017/2018. campaign when the Chancellor used the issues relating to constitutions, • Preparing for the integration of the national Budget to announce £200 million for local However, we expressed disappointment completion of assurance frameworks, minimum wage into a revised pay spine. broadband projects as well as £16 million at the compensatory reductions in New civic and democratic engagement and to trial new 5G technology. I particularly Homes Bonus and the higher than communications. Working with Parliamentarians we have welcomed the fact that the trials will take contributed to select committees on welfare anticipated hurdle-rate. We will continue With our colleagues on the City Regions place in non-metropolitan areas as well as reform, business rates retention and to the to strongly lobby on this, recognising that Board we have continued to make the urban settings. Committee on Financial district councils have been among the case for current employment and skills most adversely affected. In recognition of the fact that rural issues Exclusion. services to be better integrated and more are a key part of the Board’s remit I was localised, and for the sector to benefit from The Local Government Finance Bill Cllr Roger Phillips, Chairman of the pleased to speak at the annual Rural a devolution process which offers more provides for the retention of all business Local Government Pension Scheme Conference in Cheltenham last September. freedoms and flexibilities. rates by 2019/2020 within a framework (LGPS) Advisory Board, has met with I took the opportunity to outline the Board’s of stronger long-term fiscal incentives for Richard Harrington MP, the then Pensions It is the view of both Boards that national work in relation to key issues such as councils to grow their local economies – Minister, and Marcus Jones MP, the Local agencies like Jobcentre Plus (JCP) seldom rural broadband. both longstanding asks of the LGA which Government Minister about reform of asset coordinate effectively and thus fail to align are being delivered by a Conservative management pools within the LGPS. with local services. We therefore strongly government. We welcomed powers in the believe that the expiry of JCP estate Board members play a leading role Bill allowing for central funding of appeals contracts in 2018 presents an opportunity managing the cost pressures from the whilst emphasising the importance of wider for reform, collaboration and integration to new pay spine that will take into account reforms to reduce speculative appeals. develop a locally relevant employment and rises of the national minimum wage and skills system. The LGA’s overarching approach to business the importance of addressing differentials without triggering the complicated and More generally, our Devo Hub website is a rates retention is led by its specific Task tricky issue of re-grading. useful resource for all councillors who are and Finish Group, on which I sit, supported interested in learning more about devolution by other technical officer groups with as it includes updates on activity at both the i direct access to DCLG officials. We have i local and national level, links to research and formulated detailed LGA responses to a number of technical issues, needs indicators analysis that can bolster the evidence base www.local.gov.uk/ www.local.gov.uk/ for devolution bids and infographics that people-and-places-board and the progress of the Fair Funding resources-board illustrate the benefits of devolution Review including additional consultations for businesses. on transitional arrangements for the 2017 business rates revaluation.

22 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 23 Safer and Stronger Communities Board Fire Services Management Cllr Morris Bright Committee and Fire Commission Cllr Rebecca Knox

The Safer and Stronger Communities The network will work with the Home Office The Fire Commission and the Fire Services Indicative of our close engagement with Board is responsible for all LGA activity in to support local leadership of Prevent, Management Committee represent the Ministers is the fact that I attend the newly- relation to the safety of local communities. including advising other elected members views of fire authorities in relation to fire created Fire Reform Board, the first meeting This includes crime and anti-social on the programme, championing Prevent service modernisation and all other fire of which took place in January. The Board behaviour, liaison, Police and in communities and leading sessions in a related issues. has been established jointly with the Home Crime Commissioners and Police and series of forthcoming regional meetings for Office and the National Fire Chiefs Council Crime Panels, community safety, public elected members. I am writing this days after the tragic fire to oversee the fire reform programme protection, the fire service, emergency in Kensington. Whilst we must wait for in England. I am particularly grateful to my Conservative planning, and licensing and other the official report into the incident to colleague on the Board, Cllr Joanne Beavis, regulatory activities. understand what exactly happened, In March we held another successful Fire who is herself a Prevent Champion, for her the issue of sprinklers in multi-occupancy Conference. In addition to a speech from The main piece of legislation that we have work in relation to this. buildings has already been raised. , the then Fire Minister, there scrutinised this year was the Policing and Over the past year we have sought to raise were sessions and workshops on a variety Crime Bill, and during its Parliamentary The Fire Services Management Committee awareness of a loophole in the law which of topics, including NJC reform, inspection, progress a number of changes were made and the Fire Commission have consistently means that people licensed to drive public procurement, devolution and governance, to the legislation in line with the LGA’s Cllr Morris Bright highlighted the importance of sprinklers in Cllr Rebecca Knox carriage vehicles – those seating between working with health partners, emergency lobbying. preventing fires from spreading and this is nine and sixteen passengers – by the DVLA service collaboration and the review of peer something that we will no doubt wish to These included the Government introducing are not subject to criminal record checks. challenge. consider as part of our own discussions on amendments to the 2003 Licensing Drivers who have had their licence removed, the tragedy. In the post-election reshuffle, was Act which will allow councils to publish or their application refused, can maintain appointed as the new Fire Minister. I look cumulative impact assessments and have a public carriage licence and continue to The Kensington disaster brought home the forward to working with Nick over regard to them when setting their licensing operate in the same area. Following our sacrifices that firefighters make to keep us the coming year. priorities. It has also introduced greater lobbying, the Department for Transport safe and it was for that reason that I was flexibility in the use of the late night levy so has committed to reviewing the law. privileged to represent the LGA at the annual Finally, since this has been my first year that it can be used in part of a council area Firefighters Memorial Service and wreath as the lead member I would like to place rather across the whole of it. Meanwhile, the LGA has held a number laying ceremony last September. on record my thanks to Conservative of taxi licensing workshops across the Meanwhile, the Investigatory Powers Act colleagues on the Fire Services Management country over the past year. These events Following significant changes at the received Royal Assent at the end of last Committee and the Fire Commission for promote best practice and have included Home Office after the EU referendum, year. Following lobbying by the LGA, the their support and enthusiastic participation presentations on the strategic role of my colleagues and I have worked to Act maintains councils’ right to access in our work. licensing as well as training sessions on a establish good relationships with our new communications data and will enable range of issues from the role of members Ministerial team. them to access a slightly expanded set of to determining the ‘fitness’ of applicants. communications data which is likely to assist In January I met the Home Secretary, in some trading standards investigations. Finally, as Vice Chairman of the Board I was Amber Rudd, to discuss the Government’s pleased to chair the LGA’s Deaths, Funerals I believe that local government has a key fire reform agenda. This was a useful and Coroners conference late last year. role to play in tackling radicalisation and meeting that covered a range of topics, The programme covered a wide range extremism, and in recognition of this the including the Thomas Review and workforce of issues including funeral poverty, Prevent Champions Network of elected reform, the future of the National Joint the implementation of the medical members was established by the Home Council, collaboration with the emergency examiners service, and the future of the Office, in consultation with the LGA, services and other key partners (such as services, pathology and commercialisation. in January. i health), the resilience of the services and the creation of a new inspection regime. i www.local.gov.uk/ safer-and-stronger- www.local.gov.uk/ communities-board fire-commission

24 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 25 What is sector-led improvement and how can it benefit my council?

Sector-led improvement is the approach Leadership Essentials Next Generation Councillor mentoring put in place by councils and the LGA following the abolition by the coalition Leadership Essentials is a series of themed The Next Generation programme, which and support Government of the previous national leadership programmes and masterclasses. is overseen by the LGA’s political groups, The LGA offers bespoke peer support such performance framework. It is based on the They are aimed at leading members offering is aimed at councillors who have already as up to five days ‘change of control’ for following key principles: a stand-alone opportunity to concentrate demonstrated potential leadership qualities new leaders/cabinet members and tailored on particular themes, develop leadership and who are considered to have the • Councils are responsible for their own peer mentoring support for individual skills and share experiences and knowledge capacity to develop further. Key areas performance and improvement and for councillors from experienced councillors amongst colleagues dealing with similar covered include: leading the delivery of better outcomes with relevant expertise. challenges. The topics covered include for local people in their area. Finance, Children’s Services, Adult Social • Policy and strategy • Councils are primarily accountable Care, Sport, Commissioning and • Community leadership Community Leadership to local communities. Stronger Risk Management. • Political management accountability through increased Community Leadership draws attention • Personal skills development transparency helps local people drive to the LGA’s resources available for newly further improvement. Focus on Leadership • Communications elected councillors, including a wide range of workbooks and e-learning modules. • Councils have a collective responsibility The Focus on Leadership programme There is no cost involved in attending this for the performance of the sector as provides events and workshops to help programme but there is a competitive a whole. councillors in their existing roles and provide application process. The format of the a bridge to more senior leadership positions. programme is reviewed each year but is • The LGA’s role is to maintain an overview All councils are entitled to one free typically based around three residential of the performance of the sector in Leadership Academy corporate peer challenge every four to blocks over two days. Information on the order to identify potential performance five years. Over the past year the LGA The Leadership Academy offers leadership Next Generation programme for 2017/2018 challenges and opportunities and to has delivered 125 peer challenges across development opportunities for councillors in will be sent to Conservative group leaders provide tools and support to help councils various service areas, including children’s frontline positions. The programme focuses over the summer. take advantage of this new approach. safeguarding, adult social care, public health on enhancing participants’ leadership style Working with the corporate LGA, the and fire services. and building skills and confidence, whilst Conservative Group offers a range of also creating valuable support networks If you are an experienced councillor who opportunities for councillors to develop with colleagues in other councils. The key has held a senior position – a cabinet their skills whatever their level of experience benefits of attending include: member or at least a scrutiny chair – for and current position. three years or more then you are welcome • Developing leadership styles to improve to apply to become a Conservative peer leadership capabilities. Peer challenge by contacting the LGA Conservative Group Office, who will answer any questions that • Developing effective strategies in the current financial environment. Peer challenge is delivered by the sector you have and send you an application form for the sector, providing a ‘practitioner to complete. • Addressing participants’ own particular perspective’ and a ‘critical friend’ challenge. challenges from within their councils. When we receive your form it will be Working as a team, and supported by an i considered by the LGA Conservative Group • Developing a ‘leadership toolbox’ of experienced LGA peer challenge manager, Executive. If they feel that you meet the techniques and strategies for the member and officer peers spend time Downloads Further information necessary criteria then they will approve participants to draw on in different situations. onsite at a council, or at a fire and rescue your application and you will be considered Our annual Councillors Guide, which provides a wealth For more information on these programmes and the service, analysing performance and making • Receiving an ILM accredited certificate for peer reviews that match your areas of of information and advice, can be downloaded from: LGA’s development offer to councillors, please contact constructive suggestions for improvements. on completion. experience and expertise. the LGA Conservative Group. The peers often benefit by being able to • Working with colleagues from other www.local.gov.uk/councillors-guide-2017 take new ideas back to their council. councils and political parties.

26 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 27 LGA Conservative Group Best Practice Directory

The LGA Conservative Group regularly “Adur and Worthing councils’ award-winning “Quarry House opened its doors to the first produces a best practice directory, the digital strategy is delivering over £200,000 in residents in July 2016. There are 33 flats; latest edition of which, Improvement and efficiency savings each year, through end to 17 for affordable rent and 16 for shared Innovation, can be downloaded from our end service re-design and digitisation. ownership. Communal areas include a group website at: www.local.gov.uk/ lounge, café, buggy store, hair salon and lga-conservatives/best-practice “Meanwhile, the Customer and Commercial assisted bathroom. Kent County Council’s Board encourages all staff to share ideas to social services department supported The examples contained in the directory improve customers experience and services. the development of the scheme and show how Conservative councils are In its first two years, the Board has delivered is a member of the allocations panel. supporting local businesses, helping additional income in excess of £600,000 A wellbeing charge collected by the county to create jobs, providing training and each year.” council funds the 24 hour cover.” employment opportunities for young people, assisting residents to get on the The directory also demonstrates how We hope that the directory is a useful property ladder, protecting and enhancing Conservative councils are developing resource for Conservative councillors to their local environments and supporting proactive and innovative solutions to learn what is happening in other councils vulnerable residents. improve the lives of local residents: and highlights schemes which might work in their own authority. In recent years all councils have had to “Recognising the need to assist older people make difficult decisions to balance the in rural communities to be able to remain in We are currently working on the next edition books whilst ensuring that they still provide their community as they become less able and want to include as many examples as the best possible services for their residents. to manage their own home led Ashford possible from the widest possible range of The examples contained in the directory are Borough Council to develop a policy to councils and across all service areas. a testament to the hard work and innovation allow exception sites to be used for specialist of Conservative councillors in difficult accommodation where there is a proven Therefore, if you have a best practice circumstances. need from a group of nearby parishes. example that you would like us to highlight please do email us at lgaconservatives@ A recurring theme in the directory is how “The first rural extra care scheme to be built local.gov.uk so that we can publicise your councils are working in partnership with on an exception site was completed in good work! other local authorities to reduce backroom Aldington. The council made available land costs and secure efficiencies through new in its ownership on a long lease of 125 years ways of working: for a nominal rent to Housing and Care 21.

LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 29 Head of Group Office Angela Page

Angela joined the LGA in 2001 as a Political Angela started her working life in banking Assistant in the Group Office and then and after a break whilst her children were in 2007 she changed roles to become a still young she went on to become an estate Political Advisor. Following Will Brooks’ agent before becoming involved in politics. departure in June 2016 Angela was appointed Head of Group Office. Having been a Conservative Party member for a number of years, Angela was elected Angela is responsible for advising on as a councillor on the London Borough of and implementing the overall policy and Bromley in May 2014. The Conservative management of the Conservative Group and providing direct support and advice Angela Page to the Group Leader and the Conservative Group Office Group Executive.

Political Advisor

The Conservative Group Office exists One of our key roles is to establish and • Producing an annual best practice Paul McCannah to support Conservative council groups maintain dialogue with Government directory showcasing the work of Paul joined the LGA in 2004. He supports During this time he chaired a number of and their councillors. It is also the day to Ministers. This includes supporting our lead Conservative local government. and advises Conservative members who scrutiny panels and was also a Cabinet day voice of Conservatives in the wider members in lobbying on specific issues of serve on the Children and Young People Member for Community Safety and for corporate LGA. legislation or policy proposals and securing • Producing an annual directory of Board, the Environment, Economy, Housing Leisure Services. He chaired the London the attendance of Ministers at Conservative Conservative members appointed to and Transport Board, the Community Councils’ Grants Committee from There are three full-time members of group meetings or corporate LGA events. LGA bodies. staff who have a wealth of knowledge, Wellbeing Board, the Safer and Stronger 2006-2008. including first-hand experience of being a In summary, the work of the Group Office • Organising the Conservative Communities Board, the People and Places Prior to joining the LGA, Paul worked as councillor and of Conservative Campaign is focused on the following areas: ‘Next Generation’ programme each Board, the City Regions Board and the the National Organiser of the Conservative Headquarters (CCHQ). We work closely year for aspiring future leaders. District Councils’ Network Members’ Board. Councillors’ Association at CCHQ. with the Local Government Department at • Acting as a secretariat to and arranging the • Attending and running sessions at Paul served as a councillor on the London CCHQ and the Conservative Councillors’ appointments of Conservative councillors Party Conference and the CCA Local Borough of Enfield from 2002 to 2014. Association, including hosting joint events on LGA governance bodies. Paul McCannah Government Conference, and having and sponsoring sessions at the annual • Working closely with, but where a visible presence at the LGA annual Local Government Conference. appropriate challenging, the Government conference. Although much of our time is spent and Party organisation. Political Assistant • Sending out a monthly email bulletin to supporting the Group Leader, Group • Influencing the policy debate within the keep you updated on key developments. Jessica Eagelton Executive and Conservative members of Conservative Party. For example, prior to the various LGA governance bodies, we also Jessica joined the LGA in September Over the past year she has taken on the the 2015 General Election we produced • Organising a regular programme of deal on a daily basis with enquiries from 2015. She provides support to the Group task of working with the LGA’s peer review Fit for the Future, which contained 31 briefing seminars around the country. Conservative councillors in relation to a Office, Group Leader, and to Conservative team in relation to the deployment of detailed policy recommendations. variety of policy or legal issues, and we aim • Supporting Conservative councils within members. She serves as the first point of Conservative peers to local authorities. contact for general enquiries, as well as to be the first port of call for Conservative • Shaping the LGA’s corporate campaigns, the context of sector-led improvement. facilitating all meetings. A Party member and graduate, Jessica council groups. policy, media and public affairs work. • Co-ordinating the LGA’s Conservative previously worked abroad with an As part of her role, Jessica organises international youth and health Should you need support on confidential • Offering advice and guidance to individual peer support programme. regional briefing seminars for Conservative development charity. matters, whether it is checking the advice councillors and to Conservative council councillors across the country as well as you may have received or assistance with groups on policy and legal issues. employment, finance or legal issues you assisting in the co-ordination of other are dealing with, the Group Office can • Producing an annual report to inform Jessica Eagelton events and functions. assist by putting you in touch with members of our activities. experienced members or officers.

30 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 LGA Conservative Group | Report & Review 2016/2017 31 LGA’s temporary relocation to Layden House Floors 1, 2 and 3 will be upgraded and released for – October 2016 to September 2017 commercial letting to enable the LGA to maximise (estimated return date) the income from this building as part of its drive for financial sustainability. The LGA has temporarily relocated from Local Government House (LGH) in Smith Square to A new and larger Open Council will be located on Layden House (76-86 Turnmill Street, London, the seventh floor. The refurbishment is expected EC1M 5LG) to allow extensive refurbishment to last for nine months and we expect to be back work to be carried out to LGH. in LGH by September 2017.

The refurbishment works will see the ground floor conference centre and all meeting rooms fully refurbished.

Contact Us

Conservative Group Office [email protected] Local Government Association Local Government House Smith Square 020 7664 3260 (secure fax) London SW1P 3HZ

020 7664 3264 www.local.gov.uk/lga-conservatives

Staff Direct Line Details

Angela Page 0207 664 3223 Jessica Eagelton 0207 664 3264 [email protected] [email protected]

Paul McCannah 0207 664 3254 [email protected]