What is a legal duty of local authorities?

• A. Setting national monetary policy
• B. Responsible for economic wellbeing by budgeting and investing in the local economy
• C. Administering the NHS
• D. Directing foreign policy

Answer: (B)

Local authorities have a legal duty to promote the economic wellbeing of the area they serve. This means using their budgets and spending to support local jobs, businesses, and investment so the community prospers. Legislation requires councils to consider economic, social, and environmental well-being in their decisions, so budgeting and investing in the local economy directly fulfills this duty.

The other options describe responsibilities at the national level: setting national monetary policy is done by national institutions, administering the NHS is a national health service function, and directing foreign policy is handled by the national government.