[chrisseaton]

My problem with local government in the UK is the absolutely dire quality of the candidates.

Most MPs seem to be generally knowledgeable about the world, well educated, qualified and have something to say about what they believe, even if you don't agree with it.

But most local government candidates seem to be retired nobodies with no experience of anything substantial and nothing enlightened to say about anything.

They always come across as the worst kind of petty lower-middle management on a power trip. Very uninspiring.

[pjc50]

It's kind of a cycle. Being a local councillor is a part time position with almost no pay, so you basically have to be retired with an interest in meddling. Local news is terrible at holding them to account and also has no money. Voters care mostly about issues that affect them directly (bins, and whichever planning policy is closest).

If the position of council chief exec (which is often very well paid) were elected, things would be different.

Oh, and the funding situation for councils is a mess.