Theme A: Citizens And Local Government Flashcards
What is the role of local government?
Local government, including local councils and county councils, represents their community and provides local services for citizens.
What does central government do?
Central government, based in Westminster, passes national laws and has devolved responsibilities for England.
What are devolved assemblies responsible for?
Devolved assemblies and parliaments, such as those of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland, are responsible for regional legislation not covered by Westminster.
What responsibilities do regional bodies have?
Regional bodies have responsibilities such as the election of police and crime commissioners.
What is the role of an elected Mayor in some cities?
An elected Mayor is responsible for economic, social, and environmental improvements in the Greater London Authority.
What are county councils responsible for?
County councils are responsible for areas such as education, the fire service, libraries, social care, transport, and highways.
What responsibilities do local councils have?
Local councils, such as district, unitary, and borough councils, handle council tax collection, social housing, leisure services, local planning, and refuse collection.
What do parish and town councils manage?
Parish and town councils are responsible for specific local services such as allotments, parks, and community centres.
How are local councils and county councils structured?
Local councils and county councils are organised in the same way as central government.
What are electoral areas called in county councils?
In county councils, electoral areas are called divisions.
What are electoral areas called in local councils?
In local councils, the electoral areas are called wards.
What does the Local Government Act 2000 state about local authorities?
Local authorities must follow one of the following structures: a mayor and cabinet executive; a leader and cabinet executive; a committee system.
What are the three key roles within a local and county council?
The three key roles are Mayors, Local councillors, and Local officers.
What is the role of mayors in local councils?
Mayors can be elected by the public or councillors, responsible for local services and ceremonial duties, but cannot make individual decisions about council business.
What are the responsibilities of local councillors?
Local councillors represent their party and ward, respond to residents’ needs, develop and review policies, scrutinise council work, and engage with the community.
What is the role of local officers in councils?
Local officers are employed to work for the council and are responsible for detailed decisions on implementing council plans.
What is the difference between Councillors and Officers?
Councillors are elected by the public in local elections, while Officers are hired professionals (not elected).
What do Councillors do?
Councillors represent local people’s views, help make decisions and policies, and attend council meetings.
What do Officers do?
Officers provide expert advice, manage day-to-day operations, and carry out and implement decisions.
Where do Officers work?
Officers work in various departments such as planning, housing, and education.
What are some responsibilities of Local Councils?
Local councils are responsible for public services, community and housing, education and youth, health and social care, and safety and law.
What public services do Local Councils provide?
Local councils provide roads and street lighting, public transport planning, and bin collection and recycling.
What community and housing services do Local Councils offer?
They provide council housing, homeless support, planning permission for new buildings, local libraries, and leisure centres.
What education and youth services do Local Councils manage?
Some local councils manage primary and secondary schools, youth clubs, and early years services.
