The latest Cabinet Manual’s focus is mainly on central government, but Local Government Chronicle points out that it takes a distinctly centralist view of how central and local government relate to each other. The only page relating to local government in the 107-page document says:

“Local authorities are responsible for their own finances within centrally set parameters and budgets. However, the Government sets the overall level of central government funding for local government in England, and decides expenditure priorities and standards for improvement.”

The document sets out the main laws, rules and conventions affecting the conduct and operation of Government. It is described as a user’s guide with the potential to become a useful reference tool for all those with an interest in the workings of Government.