Published annually, "The Commonwealth Local Government Handbook" has become a vital reference for those wishing to understand the role of local government across the Commonwealth. The 2004 edition features 26 country profiles of local government systems plus an extended essay by Dr M Sohail on the issues confronting local authorities considering procurement via the local government service partnership route. The essay is supplemented by case studies from across the Commonwealth. The country profiles are written in a highly-comparative format for ease of use by those seeking to make international comparisons. These succinct outlines are essential platforms from which policy makers and practictioners can make international learning and policy transfer effective. The profiles are updated regularly to reflect the changes taking place in each country. The 2005 edition will be further expanded to provide a comprehensive comparative study of local government in the Commonwealth.