Read our 'On the day' briefing for local government.
Key messages
The Chancellor has confirmed that local services will not face additional cuts in 2015/16. The Government has therefore acknowledged the huge contribution councils have already made to balance the country's books and the fragile financial position in which this has placed many local authorities.
By May 2015, Government funding for councils will be 40 per cent lower than in 2010. Further reductions without radical reform will have a detrimental impact on people's quality of life.
Following the new devolved powers announced for Greater Manchester, it is disappointing that devolution for the rest of England did not feature. The Government has promised new devolved powers for Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland but has yet to deliver for England. All parts of the country, from big cities to non-metropolitan areas, need greater freedom from Whitehall.