CSPP Board Member Richard Kerley was interviewed today on Good Morning Scotland.

Responding to news that Councillors from West Dunbartonshire will vote to reject plans to set up a joint agency for back office functions, Professor Kerley said:

"It is curious that West Dunbartonshire Council, who actually led some of the scoping work, have appeared to pull back at the last moment. Yet, they are not the first to do so with South Lanarkshire already withdrawing from the process."

"The fundamental factor underlying this is there are so many councils involved in complex and difficult discussions. Perhaps, it works better when fewer councils are involved in these deliberations."

"Shared services have become one of the mantras of local government efficiencies and is a route strongly encouraged by the Scottish Government."

"However, it is not the only way forward and the projected savings of implementing the Clyde Valley plan are modest compared to overall council spend."

Further information

The business case for shared services in Clyde Valley as well as the Arbuthnott Review can be accessed here