Contact: Jon Pittam, ext 7400

1 Summary

1.1 This report summarises the progress of the Inquiry into Local Government Funding led by Sir Michael Lyons and suggests a response to the Inquiry's request for views. It also reports on a recent paper published by the Local Government Association (LGA) setting out in more detail how its proposals for a combination of local taxes might work in practice.

1.2 The following decisions are sought:

1 That the County Treasurer, in consultation with the Leader, be authorised to submit a written response to the Lyons Inquiry as set out in this report.

2 That the County Treasurer, in consultation with the Leader, be authorised to submit a written response to the Local Government Association on its latest proposals for a combination of local taxes as set out in this report, and that this response be copied to the Lyons Inquiry.

2 Reason

2.1 The County Council needs to influence the LGA's thinking on the balance of funding review and the outcome of the Lyons Inquiry.

2.2 This decision supports all the Aims of the Council's corporate strategy as the funding of local government provides the financial resources for:

Aim 1 - maximising life opportunities

Aim 2 - stewardship of the environment

Aim 3 - achieving economic prosperity

Aim 4 - building strong and safe communities

Aim 5 - improving services

Aim 6 - developing councillors and staff.

3 Other options considered and rejected:

3.1 Not applicable

4 Conflicts of interest declared by the decision maker or a member or officer consulted

4.1 Not applicable.

5 Dispensation granted by the Standards Committee

5.1 Not applicable.

6 Reason(s) for the matter being dealt with if urgent

6.1 Not applicable.

Approved by: ................................... ... Date: .........................

Councillor T K Thornber