We challenged MHCLG as to whether its reforms will put local government finance on a sustainable footing. It acknowledged that there was not enough money in the system, so the aim of the reforms was to use the money available more efficiently and productively. But MHCLG also recognised the need to manage the demand pressures on local government and referenced planned reforms for children’s social care, SEND, homelessness and adult social care (the Casey Commission).82 It asserted that its approach was the right one, but with the caveat that it did not know the outcome of the spending review and international events could affect the overall economic position.83