Margaret Beckett, Leader of the House of Commons and President of the Council, was at Southampton City Council’s one-stop shop information service today, as part of the nationwide Modernising Government roadshow.

During her visit Mrs Beckett met the nine-strong unit at the busy Southampton City Information centre. The members of the front-line unit are trained to handle a wide range of enquiries about Southampton, from council business and council tax payments to tourist accommodation and commercial opportunities in the city. 

Southampton City Information is a prime example of the growing success of the Modernising Government programme. Staff at the centre completed 98% of the 117,000 telephone enquiries last year within fifteen minutes. 

Commenting on the support local businesses have given to the service, Mrs Beckett said:

“It means joining up. Good government need not be big government. Rather, it is about working in partnership with town halls, unions and the private and voluntary sectors to deliver the best possible services. It is about working together in ways that haven’t happened before. 

“This service reflects the Government’s vision of investing in the public sector. It’s premises have recently been refurbished and it’s IT system updated. Foremost in the government’s drive for success in the public sector is investment in resources and the workforce.” 

The aim the Council had realised in establishing its gateway enquiries’ service was to bring-about real improvements in information provision and provide a Monday to Saturday service which will make a real difference to the lives of the people of Southampton. The comprehensive City Information website provides an easy-to-use gateway to information as diverse as careers advice, market days and letting agents in the city.