Leighton Andrews, Minister for Public Services
This was published under the 2011 to 2016 administration of the Welsh Government
In accordance with Section 73 of the Government of Wales Act 2006, Welsh Ministers are required to make a scheme setting out how they propose, in the exercise of their functions, to sustain and promote Local Government in Wales. Welsh Ministers are required to publish a report of how the proposals set out in the scheme were implemented in the previous financial year and to lay a copy of the report before the National Assembly for Wales.
I am pleased to present the Annual Report for 2013-14 to the National Assembly today. The Report highlights the collaborative and partnership work which has been taking place across the public services in Wales during the previous financial year, and the progress which has been made on improving scrutiny and accountability in Local Government.
The Welsh Government’s response to the Commission on Public Service Governance and Delivery Devolution, Democracy and Delivery: Improving public services for people in Wales, and the White Paper, Reforming Local Government sets out a new agenda for Local Authorities and the wider public services in Wales.
The approach outlined in the White Paper, Reforming Local Government is necessary if we are to sustain Local Government in Wales. Our objective is to create a modern and effective Local Government, delivering efficient services that meet the needs of the people in Wales. I will be driving this agenda vigorously and will be looking to Local Government to engage constructively.