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For the first time, a legal text has addressed local government constitutional and administrative law as a subject distinct from the law governing the functions of local authorities. Provides a comprehensive account of the legal and administrative framework of local government today. Examines the rules which govern the way local authorities come into existence: by statute; by reference to their relationship with central and regional government; by reference to the general powers which are common to them; by reference to how they are further defined as the wide variety of different functional authorities. Studies the rules that govern the way in which local authorities operate, including domestic and administrative law; European law - EC and human rights; domestic discrimination law; local government audit law; the jurisdiction of the Ombudsman. Looks at local government constitution, principles of local government and administrative law, decisions, members, officers, finance, performance, property and service provision, and liability and accountability in law.