Monday 16 February 2004 - News - Fire safety
Fire brigades the only 'well-regarded' public service
Business leaders have
expressed "widespread dissatisfaction" with the standard of public
services in the UK, with only the fire service being "well-regarded"
according to a new poll.
A survey of more than 500 members of the Institute of Directors showed that fire and rescue was the most highly regarded public service, with three out of four business leaders polled describing it as good.
In contrast only 16% were happy with planning services administered by local authorities. A high level of discontent was also revealed with the condition of roads across the UK.
Geraint Day, policy analyst at the IoD said: "This survey revealed vastly differing standards of service amongst key public services. Overall, however, there appears to be widespread dissatisfaction with public services in general, with only the fire service being universally well-regarded.
"Local government administered services such as planning and business rates come in for the most damning criticism.
"The Government should take heed. As far as business is concerned there is a feeling there is still a long road to travel before we see an improvement in public services."
Angie Bell
A survey of more than 500 members of the Institute of Directors showed that fire and rescue was the most highly regarded public service, with three out of four business leaders polled describing it as good.
In contrast only 16% were happy with planning services administered by local authorities. A high level of discontent was also revealed with the condition of roads across the UK.
Geraint Day, policy analyst at the IoD said: "This survey revealed vastly differing standards of service amongst key public services. Overall, however, there appears to be widespread dissatisfaction with public services in general, with only the fire service being universally well-regarded.
"Local government administered services such as planning and business rates come in for the most damning criticism.
"The Government should take heed. As far as business is concerned there is a feeling there is still a long road to travel before we see an improvement in public services."
Angie Bell
