Rayner promises 'total rewiring' of government power for North at Convention

Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner delivered a keynote speech at the Convention of the North in Preston, emphasizing a 'wholesale total rewiring of government power in England' to empower the North. She highlighted the transformative potential of the English Devolution White Paper, which aims to grant mayors new powers and enhance local funding for areas such as planning and employment support. Rayner pointed out that over 90% of the North is covered by devolution agreements, and the government has increased local funding by nearly £840 million this year. She expressed the need for change, stating that a system currently hoards power and investment away from the North, limiting decision-making to a select few. Additionally, she outlined plans for increased building and infrastructure, including a new railway line to improve connectivity. Rayner described the devolution initiative as the 'biggest power shift in a generation,' aiming to create a fairer system for all Northern communities.