UK Government Unveils Devolution Plans

The UK government is set to announce a significant shift towards devolution, with a new white paper proposing to make devolution the 'default setting' for local governance. This plan aims to empower regional mayors and create 'strategic authorities' that would oversee local development and infrastructure projects, thereby enhancing local representation. However, concerns have been raised by groups like the District Councils Network, which warn that this could lead to the formation of 'mega councils' that diminish local decision-making. The government argues that merging councils could save up to £2 billion, allowing for increased investment in frontline services. Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner emphasized that the reforms are intended to put power back into the hands of local communities, rather than dictated from Westminster. The proposals will be formally detailed in the English Devolution White Paper, expected to be published shortly.