Good Local Economics

As I write this, we are two days from the Budget – with most politicians and commentators discussing two key elements to it – jobs and growth. In last month’s column, I talked about how localising business rates can help growth – and indeed the coalition has since launched a review into local government finance reform.

If ever there was a time to bother with a public consultation, now is that time. After a very mild autumn, winter is starting to bite and the government is seeking views on the Green Deal – which aims to ensure all of us take responsibility for insulating our homes and adopt measures to reduce our energy use.