Autumn spending review deadline for devolution deals

Chancellor George Osborne announced in his Budget speech in the House of Commons that the government remains ‘open to any further proposals’ from local authorities, but commented that any such bids would have to be submitted ‘in time for conclusion ahead of the spending review’.

Osborne also confirmed how the Greater Manchester Combined Authority would receive further powers, including placing control of fire services under the new Mayor, further collaboration on employment programmes and children services, as well as the establishment of a regional and commission.

Osborne also reinforced that this government was ‘working towards deals’ with the Sheffield and Liverpool City Regions and Leeds, West Yorkshire and partner authorities. A section in Budget papers referring to these deals, said the city regions ‘will be granted significant additional powers and the opportunity to take control of their own affairs to support economic growth’ if agreements are reached. However, these would depend on the regions agreeing to have an ‘elected mayor working with local leaders to oversee new powers devolved from ministers’.

In his speech, Osborne also announced thither was a ‘major plan to give Cornwall a greater say over local decisions’, saying it would be the first of new so-called 'county deals' and that progress was being made on a major plan for the Duchy.

Cornwall Council Leader John Pollard said: “We have been working with partners to prepare a 'Case for Cornwall' which sets out ambitious proposals for greater powers, freedoms, flexibilities and support to be given by the government to Cornwall.

"These proposals are designed to allow the people of Cornwall to benefit from an integrated health and social care system, significant economic growth, more affordable homes, greater access to employment and training opportunities, together with a much improved public transport network.

"As such we welcome today's positive comments from the Chancellor which set out the government's plans to honour its manifesto commitment to devolve far reaching powers from London to counties and look forward to continuing to work with civil servants to agree a Cornwall Deal which enables the Case for Cornwall proposals to be delivered".

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