Petition Protection for constituents against Local Government failings

The Localism Act has the potential to increase the public’s risk and exposure to Local Government corruption.

Devolution without consideration for the imbalance that exists between Local Authorities and disempowered constituents risks destabilising already vulnerable communities.

The lack of clear policy, powers, protection or recourse available to local people makes it difficult to obtain justice or a remedy when things go wrong.

There is an urgent need, particularly in light of suggestions of greater devolution of Parliamentary powers, to ensure the protection of citizens’ legal and civil rights are clearly and adequately provided for.

Government reform is required to ensure adequate recourse is freely available and accessible to constituents for material breaches by Local Authorities, including legal or criminal action where appropriate. An effective framework should both protect the rights of the public and act as a deterrent to Local Government.