LOCAL GOVERNMENT: Crime is top priority for councils
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Tackling crime is the most important service that councils can deliver, a survey of attitudes has found. Three-quarters of people questioned placed crime and law-and-order issues at the top of their list of priorities.
Fire services were also regarded as very important but, surprisingly, rubbish collection and street cleaning were placed above schools, which were rated the same as pavement maintenance.
The MORI poll, carried out on behalf of the Local Government Association, also disclosed that six out of 10 people would like their authorities to have more freedom to fix council tax at the level needed to provide good services. Twice as many people were satisfied with their local council as with Parliament, the figures suggest.
Street lighting was a priority for 49 per cent of the sample, while parks, open spaces and trees were important for half of those questioned.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments