I suspect some with be writing a bit about ‘Smarter Government’ this week. Before the main document is published, here are a couple of speeches that set the context.
First, my speech to the Institute of Government last month. It has a simple message; we should optimistic about the prospects for public services in the years to come. Yes spending growth will be slower; but we have built a store-house of strength in the last decade; a country of stronger citizens; a stronger frontline and a stronger civic society. Drawing on these strengths we can radically change the shape of state for the years to come.
Second, my speech on local public services and civic society, delivered in Birmingham on November 19th. It sets outs an argument for how our public services and community action must come together in a new coalition to change our country for the better in the century ahead. (above, two professors who have helped extensively with the thinking, Tim Berners-Lee and Nigel Shadbolt visit my Commons office)
Liam is the MP for Birmingham Hodge Hill, and Labour's Shadow Chief Secretary. 
