was coming to an end, but the institute for fiscal studies warned today that many public services will continue to feel squeezed for some time to come. we're joined via webcam by graeme mcdonald, the managing director of solace, a group representing senior managers in the public sector. what was your reaction to what the chancellor had to say yesterday? austerity has come to an end or is coming to an end he said. is that how it feels on the front line for councils around england ? how it feels on the front line for councils around england? no, it doesn't. as the ifs said this morning, for a chief exit or a local authority, looking at their own services, they will be wondering where the money is coming from a couple of years —— chief executive. some sticking plasters have been put over some areas. but we still have a long way to go before we have certainty and stability for local