R2-43

The housing regulators should pay especially close attention to the stewardship of LSVT housing associations, and of others which are monopolistic suppliers in specific localities. Common themes There are a number of issues which apply to all the bodies covered in this study or which have force in more than one area of the report. We consider that payment of salaries or allowances to board members of local public spending bodies would undermine the voluntary principle. The position is less clear-cut as regards compensation for loss of earnings or benefit payments, but we do not believe this should be introduced at this stage. Members of governing bodies should, however be able to claim expenses, including those for child care. Many witnesses and correspondents raised the question of their personal liability for losses incurred by their institutions, including claims for damages. This is particularly relevant in the event of the institution becoming insolvent and it is something that the government should address. We suggest a series of pilot projects to encourage local authorities and other local interests to examine with the local bodies concerned issues which are relevant to them. We also propose standard terms of office for board members, external adjudication of complaints and access to outside impartial assistance in resolving, or adjudicating on, disputes.