28 March 2006

A new web forum to get the public talking about the future of local government has been launched.

It has been created by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister and the views expressed on site will help shape the government's white paper due to be published in the summer.

The online debate will promote discussions over local government restructuring and the roles and responsibility of local authorities.

Communities and local government minister David Millband believes online forums are just one of the many ways governments can engage with local people.

"Tools like the web forum launched today let us use 21st century communication to consult on the vision for 21st century local government," he said.

He added that he hoped as many people as possible take advantage of the forum, emphasising that "the future of local government affects everyone".

Mr Millband is a strong supporter of the use of Internet technology in providing clear and easily accessible channels of communication with local communities.

He has recently become the first minister to set up his own blog, providing his thoughts and ideas on local government issues for all to read online.

© Adfero Ltd

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