Foreword by      
 the Prime Minister

I am passionate about public service. A central task of this Government is to make the argument for public services, to move beyond the false choice between big and small government to a constructive debate about how we make government as effective as possible.

Investment is the first step. That's why in July, the Chancellor of the Exchequer announced the biggest investment in public services of modern times. This is a huge opportunity for everyone who works in public services.

But with that opportunity comes a real responsibility - a responsibility to use those resources effectively, efficiently and imaginatively.

That is why our investment is tied to clear targets. By being specific about what outcomes we want but flexible about how they should be achieved, we can free up public services to innovate. In particular we can give power to those at the front line who know best how to improve services and meet the needs of their users.

I greatly welcome the evidence in the annual report of the progress being made. Too often the changes that have brought about real improvements for users remain too little known and celebrated. By celebrating these successes, we can encourage them to be more widely adopted and encourage those with new ideas to put them into practice.

There are hugely impressive examples here. Trade Partners UK using the Internet to send sales leads directly to businesses. Tenants auditing Sandwell Council's housing policies. NHS Walk-in Centres offering healthcare advice without the patient having to take time off work to make an appointment.

Of course, there's always more to do. The report points the way ahead. But it also shows what modernising government is all about. Empowering workers. Improving services for users. Restoring confidence in public services and public service.

I thank everyone involved in this programme and public services generally and hope this report will provide encouragement and inspiration.