Today the Devolution APPG is launching a new inquiry, which will look at how central and local government can work together more effectively, and how reforms in Whitehall could strengthen the principle of devolution and improve outcomes for local communities and businesses.
Andrew Lewer MP, Chair of the Devolution APPG: “I’m pleased to announce that the Devolution APPG is launching an inquiry into the role that central government has in making success of devolution in England.
“There has been substantial focus on the role of local authorities in delivering devolution, but we are now interested in casting the spotlight on the potential barriers that exist in Whitehall to effective devolution.
“We are keen to assess the reality of powers currently allocated to local authorities from Westminster, and are also interested in specific case studies.
“We are keen to hear from councils across the country, think tanks, trade associations, businesses, local government representatives, government and many more, to understand what needs to change at national government level to enhance English devolution.”
The inquiry will receive both written and oral evidence from a wide variety of devolution experts. The inquiry’s full terms of reference can be found on the APPG website – https://connectpa.co.uk/devolution-appg/, and submissions should be sent to devolutionappg@connectpa.co.uk. The deadline for submitting written evidence is Friday 8 January 2021.
The inquiry panel comprises of the following prominent parliamentarians and local government leaders:
· Andrew Lewer MP, Devolution APPG Chair
· Clive Betts MP, HCLG Committee Chair
· Scott Mann MP, Former Deputy Leader of the Conservative Group on Cornwall Council
· Lord Kerslake, Former Head of the Civil Service, APPG Vice-Chair
· Baroness Eaton, Former Leader of Bradford Metropolitan Borough Council, APPG Vice-Chair
· Baroness Thornhill, Former Mayor of Watford
· Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, Leader of Bradford Council and Chair of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority
· Cllr Morris Bright, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council
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