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ANNEX 1
Research methodology

The research approach involved in-depth case studies and a literature review, and aimed to find evidence of good practice and lessons learnt in local authorities on consulting local taxpayers over tax and spend issues.

THE CASE STUDIES

Ten authorities were purposively selected for the study in consultation with an Advisory Forum of local authorities with experience in finance and council tax consultation. Case studies were chosen to reflect the following characteristics:

• experience of consulting the public on tax and spend issues;

• type of authority;

• political control;

• geographic location.

The authorities that participated as case studies for the research are as follows:

• Northamptonshire County Council

• Hertfordshire County Council

• London Borough of Croydon

• London Borough of Sutton

• Milton Keynes Metropolitan District Council

• Kirklees Metropolitan District Council

• East Riding District Council

• Dacorum District Council

• Birmingham City Council

• Bristol City Council

In-depth interviews were conducted with officers and members from each selected authority. The interviews were conducted by researchers from MORI and INLOGOV (University of Birmingham). Where possible, a local authority finance expert accompanied the researchers.

REVIEW OF LITERATURE

These guidelines were also informed by a review of relevant material on consultation, including academic literature, previous guidance and documents developed by local authorities. A summary of the literature review can be found at Annex 3.

 

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Published 4 July 2002

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