Ryan FowlerUNISON has responded to the government’s devolution white paper published today, stressing the importance of reforms that empower local councils and safeguard employment within the public sector.
Mike Short, head of local government at UNISON, commented: “Democratising local services could contribute significantly to government plans to grow the economy.
“But it’s crucial any proposals to phase out smaller district councils don’t undermine local decision-making or the ability of public service workers to deliver services.
“Nor must the plans lead to further micro-management by Whitehall. Local communities and council employees are best placed to know what works in their areas.
“It’s also vital the changes outlined in the white paper aren’t a smokescreen for cutting local authority jobs. After years of damaging austerity that has left councils at breaking point, investing in services and staff must be central to any reform.”
