Title

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Move to a true local state

We have now reached a turning point 'where devolution to a true local state would not only achieve improved public service outcomes but could genuinely save lives', says Rob Whiteman.

With the latest delay to the Government's White Paper, devolution very much feels like it's going the way of social care reform. Something successive governments continue to make grand statements and manifesto pledges on, but then fail to deliver in a meaningful way.

I make no secret that I'm an advocate for a more localised state. Since the Second World War, England has become one of the most centralised states in the world. The COVID-19 pandemic has been a glaring example of the failures of this approach. It's past time to reverse 70 years of creeping centralisation and instead give councils the policymaking and financial powers to enable a full local state.

Throughout the crisis, despite being on the frontline of supporting communities and businesses, councils have been hamstrung in their ability to respond. Local leaders have been outspoken about the lack of consultation on measures appropriate to their areas. We've seen myriad stories emerge about delays to data sharing from central government, limiting councils' ability to understand local infection levels and support effective test and trace systems.

We have now reached a turning point where devolution to a true local state would not only achieve improved public service outcomes but could genuinely save lives. You only need look to our colleagues in Germany to demonstrate the impact of a local government system that can act without waiting for permission from the centre. Empowering councils would also support the long-term stimulation of local economies, providing a robust way for government to deliver on its pledge to ‘level up' historically underserved areas of the country.

It's time to stop the stalling and take bold steps towards a new system of government, where we consider not what should get devolved, but what little central government should reserve.

Rob Whiteman CBE is chief executive of the Chartered Institute of Public Finance and Accountancy

@RobWhiteman

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Local government needs genuine devo

By Louise Gittins | 25 July 2025

The Local Government Association 'supports devolution where governance is local by default, with built-in subsidiarity and accountability', says Louise Gittins.

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Planning for the future of planning

By Dr Wei Yang | 24 July 2025

Dr Wei Yang presents the case for investing in tools that improve transparency, efficiency and inclusivity, to support a modernised planning system fit for t...

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Let the electorate decide what they are willing to pay for

By Heather Jameson | 24 July 2025

'Fiscal devolution – particularly for council tax – has a lot going for it', says Heather Jameson.

ECONOMIC GROWTH

Balancing need with investment

By Angela Holden | 24 July 2025

Angela Holden previews the findings of a new report from the Regulator of Social Housing and sets out the key lessons for both housing associations and counc...

Rob Whiteman

Popular articles by Rob Whiteman