Mark R Heath

For those following the UK devo/ local govt reorganisation programme, this is the order that postpones the elections in 9 councils in England this year so they can fast track devo and LGR and have their first mayoral polls in May 2026.

@jomillernz.bsky.social welcome to the good side!

Local audit reform: a strategy for overhauling the local audit system in England

Audit has been an issue in LG but here is HMGs proposals for change. Those that followed the Kingman & Redmond reviews will rightly recognise their words of wisdom.

The proposed statutory and independent Local Audit Office (LAO) - Audit Commission 2?

Strengthening the standards and conduct framework for local authorities in England This consultation seeks views on proposals to introduce measures to strengthen the standards and conduct regime for local authorities in England.

www.gov.uk/government/c...

Interesting consultation on improving the ethical framework relating to members in local authorities. Alongside the reorganisation of local government white paper, this could get lost but it is important that the issue of the lack of effective sanctions is addressed.

Such a great film. And on the legal list, something about RTA offences outside/around phone boxes…..

Yes. Great film, huge fun. My daughter (when she saw it ) was convinced it was is a pretty accurate representation of how you get into the legal profession (sorry).

It’s actually snowing here in Southampton. Quite rare for us in the south and certainly not significant in terms of content or impact compared with what others have had. But quite a “wow” moment and a nice break from analysing case law on councillors behaviour.

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Agreed 100%. The RO has to be robust and may take fire from all sides. Fortunately the courts are supportive and get that their role is at times invidious, and acknowledges they are legal entities running a vital function in our democracy

They have to be when they are in the middle of elections, with all that goes with that. One false step & they are answering to the courts.

I don’t think I can agree with the roles being blurry. The law is clear and sets out what they must do for each poll and at what point in the timetable. ROs are v robust about their statutory role as compared to their day job & accountabilities.

I frankly don’t see timetable tweaks helping enough, and voting in embassies isn’t going to help unless you live near enough to one….and if we are ever going to start e voting, this is an ideal and possibly justified area to trial it in. It couldn’t make it any worse……

I really do still think we should at least trial some kind of e voting(poss e ballot paper dispatch) for overseas voters. It’s worse in a “snap” as there can be no lead it/ prep for getting the overseas voters already registered and wanting to vote by post their ballots. ……

No 1 priority from SOLACE who represent ROs is and remains the consolidation simplification and modernisation of electoral legislation.

Just don’t hold your breath…..

…. Just a bit of a concern therefore at this in a BV Report though I get 100% why it’s been included. Other ROs have had to confront similar issues. Not sure how/ who will control social & personal media over and above what’s currently available but look forward to hearing from HMG in due course

The circs & history at TH clearly played a part and that’s why I don’t disagree with the comments but the RO role is legally completely separate and the RO has no accountability to their council in that regard. ROs and the courts have been at pains to stress that quite rightly…….

Interesting that the report covers election issues, not a matter for the council to deliver but the Returning Officer. Within ambit? Personally, can 100% see why they included reference to this & the issues. TH isn’t the only place with negative abuse of candidates so look forward to Govt response

Yes please. Thank you.

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Die hard . The first (and best) obviously.

I SO identify with this!

Thank you. Most helpful