From the Wikipedia page [1] The Local Government Information Unit (LGiU) is a London based thinktank and registered charity. Established in 1983 as a membership organisation for UK local authorities, the LGiU provides policy services and seeks to influence national policy, particularly in relation to local government and local public services. The LGiU has around 150 local authority members and a wide range of associate members and partner organisations. The chief executive of the LGiU is Andy Sawford, and the chair is Cllr. Dave Wilcox. In July 2008 the LGiU was voted Thinktank of the Year in the Public Affairs News Awards.