Report by Chief Executive

The Chief Executive submitted a report on the Government’s English Devolution White Paper, which set out a range of Policies that the Government was proposing to reform Local Government.  The most significant proposal was for devolution to Strategic Authorities covering all areas of England, and for reorganisation of local government to “deliver sustainable and high quality services”.  The report sought to provide a summary of the proposals in the White Paper and recommendations were set out specifically in relation to devolution proposals.  The Council was asked to authorise the Leader of the Council to work with other local authority Leaders to develop a Strategic Authority proposal that included Reading.  The purpose would be to secure the benefits and devolved powers proposed within the White Paper for the benefit of Reading’s residents and businesses.  It was also recommended that, in principle, this would include a Mayor for the Strategic Authority to secure the widest benefits from devolution.

The following motion was moved by Councillor Terry and seconded by Councillor Leng and CARRIED:

Resolved –

(1)           That the report outlining the key elements of the English Devolution White Paper be noted;

(2)           That the proposed devolution framework within the White Paper, and attached as annex 1 to the report, including the significantly increased resources and powers that a Mayoral Strategic Authority would receive compared to a Foundation Authority be noted;

(3)           That the Leader of the Council be authorised to work with other local authority leaders to develop a proposal for a Strategic Authority in line with the criteria in the White Paper;

(4)           That discussions should, in principle, assume an elected Mayor for the new Strategic Authority in order to secure the best outcomes and investment for the residents and businesses of Reading;

(5)           That the matter be considered again when further information was available to endorse the preferred option.