1.   All councils will have to respond in public to criticism from auditors.

2.   Although conservation matters are generally assigned on an area basis, many councils now have their own conservation officers.

3.   At present, a council has to set the same standard charge for all unoccupied second homes.

4.   But the councils have the power to investigate corruption and run their own radio and television stations.

5.   Councils will have to carry out an annual survey of customer satisfaction, published just before local election.