Existing learning gaps have been exacerbated by the pandemic to such an extent that they are unlikely to be solved by a quick ‘catch-up’ initiative.

Updated guidance on the safe use of council buildings has been published, following confirmation that virtual council meetings will not be extended.

Andy Burnham has made a landmark decision to take control of buses in the biggest shake-up to Greater Manchester’s transport network in over 30 years.
The decision from the Mayor of Greater Manchester means that the region will be the first city-region outside London to have buses that are under local control, allowing local leaders to set routes, frequencies, fares and tickets.

The Centre for Progressive Policy has revealed that the government’s key policies for economic recovery will benefit London over the rest of the UK.

A new Business Rates relief fund of £1.5 billion is available for businesses affected by coronavirus outside the retail, hospitality, and leisure sectors.

The Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport has instructed for the Union flag to be flown on UK government buildings every day.
Currently, Union flags are only required to be flown on all UK Government buildings on designated days. However, new guidance will ask for the flag to be flown all year round, unless another flag is being flown – such as another national flag of the UK, or a county flag, or other flags to mark civic pride.

Labour’s Shadow Business Secretary Ed Miliband is calling for an electric vehicle revolution for every part of the country.
In his speech from Labour Party headquarters, Miliband will call for an ‘electric vehicle revolution’ in every part of the country, setting out ambitious proposals to back Britain’s car manufacturers, create jobs, and make owning a zero emission vehicle an option for all.

Landmark reforms that will boost recycling, tackle plastic pollution and reduce litter have been announced.

The Green Alliance has stressed that the most effective way to deal with dirty air in the UK is to roll out clean air zones across the country.
There is currently a lack of consistent regarding clean air zones. Several local authorities in the north have scrapped or deferred plans to introduce clean air zone, while cities in other parts of the UK are pressing ahead with the schemes to limit dirty vehicles.

The Welsh Government has announced an additional £24 million package of support to revitalise Wales’ town centres.
Since 2015, the Welsh Government’s Town Centre Loans programme has funded local authorities to support landlords to redevelop empty and under-utilised properties.