The first official government meeting with regional mayors to discuss the significant shift of power from Westminster to local regions is set to take place on Tuesday, according to the newly appointed Deputy Prime Minister. This initiative marks the beginning of a “major programme of devolution” aimed at decentralizing authority and fostering regional development.
Government Leaders to Meet at 10 Downing Street
England’s regional mayors are scheduled to meet with Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner, who also serves as the Communities Secretary, alongside Prime Minister Keir Starmer at 10 Downing Street. The focal point of this meeting will be the discussion of strategies to implement a comprehensive devolution plan. Rayner emphasized that for an extended period, Westminster’s tight control has restricted opportunities for towns, cities, and villages across the UK.
Identifying Local Specialisms for National Strategy
During the meeting, local mayors will be encouraged to pinpoint their region’s unique strengths and capabilities, which can contribute to a national industrial strategy. This is aligned with Labour’s broader objective of economic growth, one of their five key missions. As part of this initiative, local leaders will be tasked with developing Local Growth Plans. These plans will identify growth sectors and the necessary infrastructure to support their expansion.
Current Devolution Deals in England
Currently, twelve areas in England, including Greater Manchester, the West Midlands, and Tees Valley, have devolution deals. These agreements grant local authorities powers over crucial areas such as transport, housing, and employment. Notably, Ben Houchen, the Conservative mayor of Tees Valley, is the only metro mayor not affiliated with the Labour Party. Other prominent mayors expected to attend the meeting include Andy Burnham of Greater Manchester and Tracy Brabin of West Yorkshire.
Expanding Powers for Local Mayors
Richard Parker, the mayor of the West Midlands, expressed hope that the meeting would result in increased autonomy for mayors to enhance their communities. He highlighted that the existing regulations imposed by previous governments were overly restrictive concerning fund allocation. With greater freedom, Parker believes he could facilitate the construction of over 3,000 new affordable homes across the West Midlands.
The Conservative Legacy of Devolution
The expansion of devolution deals was a significant part of the Conservative government’s strategy, creating new combined authorities chaired by metro mayors. This effort was a component of the “levelling-up” strategy, aimed at reducing regional disparities across the country. More areas, including Suffolk, Norfolk, and Greater Lincolnshire, are set to receive devolved powers by 2025.
A New Relationship with Local Governments
Keir Starmer underscored the importance of local knowledge in driving regional development, stating that those with a vested interest in their communities are best positioned to determine their needs. Angela Rayner echoed this sentiment, asserting that the new government is committed to resetting its relationship with local governments to ensure more effective and responsive governance.
Conclusion
The upcoming meeting at 10 Downing Street marks a pivotal moment in the UK’s approach to governance, emphasizing the need for regional autonomy and local decision-making. By empowering local leaders and recognizing the unique strengths of different regions, the government aims to foster economic growth and reduce inequalities across the country. This shift towards devolution represents a significant step in redefining the balance of power between Westminster and local authorities, promising a future where local communities have a greater say in their development and prosperity.