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Written question asked by Kevin Hollinrake (Conservative) on Friday, 21 February 2025, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 25 February 2025. It was answered by Jim McMahon (Labour) on Friday, 28 February 2025 on behalf of the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.

Local Government: Reorganisation

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, pursuant to her oral statement of 5 February 2025 on English Devolution and Local Government, Official Report, Column 766, whether she plans to follow article four of the European Charter of Local Self-Government in the context of her proposals to transfer powers from local authorities to strategic authorities.

Answer

In December 2024, the government published its English Devolution White Paper, which set an ambitious new framework for English devolution, moving power out of Westminster and into the hands of those who know their area best. This devolution programme will continue to fully comply with all our obligations under the Charter.

We want to see all of England access devolution by establishing Strategic Authorities – organisations made up of a number of councils working together over areas that people recognise and work in - that can make the key decisions to drive economic growth. Ultimately, our goal is mayoral devolution. This government believes that the benefits of devolution are best achieved where there is a mayor in place, to provide strong local leadership and accountability.

We want to achieve this goal in partnership with local areas wherever possible.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
31964
Session
2024-26
Related items
English Devolution and Local Government
Wednesday, 5 February 2025
Proceeding contributions
House of Commons
Subjects
Devolution Local government Reorganisation
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk