12.2 For local authorities, in particular, there will be the special responsibility of ensuring that national strategy has an effective and imaginative local focus, as we have argued in the previous section. They will need to give a lead, without dominating, in the local audit of provision and planning in partnership to meet local needs. They should ensure that their work with local schools is both consonant with and furthers their approach to lifelong learning. By the same token, plans for lifelong learning should figure as a core element of authorities strategic education plans.

12.3 Other key local partners, such as TECs and LECs, colleges, universities and employers should also recognise the role and responsibilities of Local Authorities and their key role in helping to develop a culture of lifelong learning for all in our society. Arrangements should be put in place for liaison, reciprocal representation on appropriate bodies and the communication and exchange of plans, initiatives and strategies amongst these main local partners.

12.4 In this regard, local authorities will need to play many roles - as strategic planners, co-ordinators, partners and, as we have argued in the previous section, as providers themselves.

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