5 Conclusion
78. Overall we are encouraged by the efforts that
the Government has made to raise the profile of the need to address
climate change at the different levels of government in the UK.
It has put in place a number of changes that should bring about
a step change in the level of activity at a local or regional
level. It clearly has an effective dialogue with the devolved
administrations on climate change issues. However, it is too early
to say whether changes to the policy and performance framework
will bring about change on the scale that is needed; the Government
will need to monitor activity closely and must be ready to intervene
early if it looks like insufficient progress in being made. Work
will need to continue on the Sub-National Review. There have been
significant changes for local authorities and the Government will
need to continue its efforts to build skills and knowledge in
local government so that they can meet the aspirations set for
them by the Government. Setting baselines and targets will be
challenging but is crucial if the changes to the performance management
framework in England are to deliver the step change in the level
of activity that is needed. A great deal is said about spreading
best practice but there will be a real challenge in making this
relevant to local experience. Above all Government must ensure
that this agenda is about real change.
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