The Autumn Budget promised everyday fixes for household costs and support for rough sleepers, alongside plans for business rates to be retained locally.

Against this backdrop of improving public services, in this issue of Government Business, The Market Research Society examines why government must actively engage with people in all communities to better understand what they need.

The Building Controls Industry Association examines how intelligent building management systems can help public sector organisations run more efficient, sustainable and well-monitored estates.

The Property Care Association explains why invasive plants present different levels and types of risk depending on where they are growing and what they are likely to affect.

The Fire Industry Association outlines best practice for fire evacuations, while the FPA highlights the key fire safety issues organisations should prioritise over the coming year.

The Meetings Industry Association looks at the factors public sector organisations should consider when selecting venues for conferences and events.

Elsewhere, our roads management feature investigates the government's new rules requiring councils to demonstrate they are doing more to repair potholes and reduce the need for repeat fixes.

We also have features looking at procurement of facilities management services, legal services, and recruitment services, plus previews of some of the autumn's public sector-focused events. 

Polly Jones, editor