Good news hidden in Council reports

A very close reading of Council papers can sometimes produce some rare gems.

Two "facts" from the Cabinet meeting of 2 February 2015.

First the financial performance of Rugby's new crematorium is not living up to its budget. The reason for this, according to Rugby Borough Council's staff, is that the death rate in Rugby is running below expectations.

Secondly the amount of money the Council is spending on pension contributions has risen. Again the reason for this, according to Rugby Borough Council's staff, is that the "auto enrolment" reforms of Lib Dem pensions minister Steve Webb are now paying off. OK this second piece of good news may not be so good for Council Tax payers in the short run but in the long run it will benefit us all if more people are able to build up occupational pensions and are not dependent on state benefits when they retire.