This, and the reduction in the number of Cabinet posts, could present an opportunity to involve more councillors in executive positions oustide the Cabinet. To some extent, this will happen anyway if Labour goes ahead with the plan to develop the role of District Committee Chairs. But, is there any reason why we can’t have political heads of Council Directorates outside the Cabinet?

Overview and Scrutiny could be transformed for the better by involving non-councillors in joint collaborative enquiries into areas of future policy. Could we have a committee of councillors and non-councillors taking time to look properly into, for example, long-term economic growth and skills, or the potential for neighbourhood councils? This kind of considered and inclusive approach might contribute to the intelligence with which the Council works – and give councillors important jobs to do with some real outcomes for the city.

Finally, we’ve suggested informally that the Council could look at the almost obsolete role and title of Alderman. Honorary aldermen (women and men with expertise and insight to offer) could be appointed to form a reference group for the Council and to come up with well thought out ideas for the future.