Title

DEVOLUTION

MPs back devolution Bill

A majority of MPs have voted in favour of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill at its second reading.

© Casimiro PT/Shutterstock.com

© Casimiro PT/Shutterstock.com

A majority of MPs have voted in favour of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill at its second reading.

Some 365 MPs backed the Bill yesterday, with 164 members opposing the changes.

Deputy prime minister Angela Rayner said the Bill marked a ‘new era' for Britain as the reforms would empower communities and enable people to have a ‘bigger say in shaping their local area'.

Rayner added: ‘This Bill will drive the biggest transfer of power in a generation out of Whitehall to our regions and communities.'

However, shadow local government secretary Sir James Cleverly criticised the reforms, warning they would create a ‘cohort of puppet mayors'.

 

DEVOLUTION

Labour looks local

By Cllr Bev Craig | 26 September 2025

As Labour delegates prepare to head to the party conference in Liverpool, Cllr Bev Craig outlines the key reforms impacting local government and signals a re...

DEVOLUTION

Counties' concern over devolution proposals

By Martin Ford | 25 September 2025

County councils have hit out at proposals to give mayors control over services like health and criminal justice – warning against a return to two-tier govern...

DEVOLUTION

After the reshuffle: ensuring the LGA's voice continues to be heard

By Louise Gittins | 23 September 2025

The LGA is engaging with the new ministerial team and with parliament to help shape reforms around devolution and to offer perspectives on behalf of councils...

DEVOLUTION

Stronger devo can solve the London problem

By Patrick Diamond | 23 September 2025

Relationships between the capital and Whitehall may have improved but its underpowered mayoralty requires urgent fiscal and planning autonomy, argue Jack Sha...

Popular articles by Izzy Lepone