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Features - 2008

  • A reform too far, by David HealdPlans to change the way the NAO operates are not only using a sledgehammer to crack a nut but would also endanger its independence, argues David Heald
  • A brave new world? By John ThorntonWhat does the future hold for public sector finance teams in a globalised environment? More shared services, pared down back-office operations and beefed up finance functions are all possibilities, says John Thornton
  • A Budget for hard times, by Joseph McHughNext week's statement will be a severe test for the chancellor. There's a squeeze on spending and no appetite for tax rises, so what are Alistair Darling's options? PF convened a round table of politicians and experts to find out. Joseph McHugh reports
  • A drain on resources, by Paul Bettison Last summer's floods were caused less by rivers bursting their banks and more by our inadequate drainage systems. The current system of myriad responsibilities and little liaison needs urgent reform
  • A force to reckon with, by Rick Muirhe green paper on police service reform proposes to include directly elected local representatives on police authorities. But will they have enough clout, asks Rick Muir
  • A lost cause? By Tash ShifrinKeeping citizens' data centrally seemed such a good idea. It could help to catch terrorists, protect children, save patients' lives, and stop people from providing the same details to different departments. But then the government started losing files.
  • A mayor you cant refuse? By George Jones and John StewartThe government talks long and loud about empowering local communities. So why is it so determined to impose directly elected mayors on councils and citizens that plainly don't want them, ask George Jones and John Stewart
  • A new fiscal framework, by Philip HammondThe Labour government's U-turns on fiscal change have left Britain with high, complicated taxes in an uncertain climate, says shadow chief secretary to the Treasury Philip Hammond. He argues that there is an alternative
  • A risky business, by Lynn DrennanPartnerships have become an important way of improving the efficiency of the public sector. However, there are risks involved. These can often be overlooked but are easily overcome if you are aware of them. Lynn Drennan explains
  • Academy overkill? By James CrabtreeWith the main political parties all committed to the academies programme, there is a danger of over-expansion, says James Crabtree. Are there more cost-effective solutions to poor educational performance in existing schools?
  • Access all areas? By Stephen Court The government is redoubling its efforts to get more young people from disadvantaged backgrounds into higher education. But there are serious obstacles in the way of hitting its 50% target
  • Adjust or bust, by Carl Emmerson and Gemma Tetlow-
  • An Olympian task, by David GoldstoneThe London Olympics present a financial challenge like no other combining a global sporting event with a major regeneration project. But to achieve its goals the Games will need substantial private investment
  • Analysis - A sustainable fiscal rule? By Carl Emmerson and Gemma TetlowA revision of the sustainable investment rule to allow extra borrowing may diminish New Labour's claims to fiscal responsibility but given the current debt burden, it may be the lesser of two evils
  • Back to their futures, by Vivienne RussellApprenticeships used to be seen as old hat. But now they've had a ministerial makeover and are viewed as vital in helping to rejuvenate an increasingly ageing public sector workforce. Vivienne Russell reports
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