A GOVERNMENT ­minister has praised East Hampshire District Council for the way it saves money by joining forces with ­neighbouring authorities.

Eric Pickles, the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, made his comment in Parliament in response to a question from East Hampshire MP Damian Hinds.

Mr Hinds told him: "EHDC has saved more than £5m since 2010 by joining with Havant borough council and establishing a joint senior management team.

"What other such opportunities might exist elsewhere and what guidance has been given?"

Mr Pickles replied: "I commend East Hampshire and Havant councils for their excellent work together. This is the future, whether we are talking about a relatively small district, a county or a unitary authority.

"It makes sense to work together on joint procurement, joint use of offices and shared services."

For full story, see this week's Liphook Herald.