Local government

The work will be incorporated into another committee despite all other parties opposing the change.

It is a "responsibility I take extremely seriously", she says.

Potholes are unfilled and prized local services like libraries and nurseries are coming under threat because of a £650m budget gap.

A plan for community councils in Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole plan splits residents.

Surrey Heath Borough Council has to find an extra £4m a year to cover interest payments on loans.

Pay for the 72 councillors in Sandwell will rise by £600 after they voted to approve the move.

The government wants to "modernise" the system and delegate more decisions to council officers.

Mark Francois says the idea of building thousands of new homes "is utterly unacceptable".