The recent report by the Institute for Government advocating for the extension of English devolution suggests that significant strides have been made in improving regional economic performance. However, the proposed measures, while ambitious, fall short of addressing the core issue: the inadequacy of the current mayoral system and the need for a more profound structural reform. The persistent economic disparity between regions such as the South East of England and London, compared to left-behind areas like Yorkshire and the North East, underscores the need for a more radical approach to devolution.
Addressing regional disparities
England’s centralised system of governance has long been critiqued for disproportionately favouring the South, particularly London and the surrounding areas, at the expense of the North and other regions. This centralisation results in a concentration of political power, economic resources, and infrastructure investments in the capital and its vicinity. Consequently, the South enjoys superior public services, better transportation networks, and more substantial economic opportunities.
In contrast, regions in the North face challenges such as underinvestment, slower economic growth, and inadequate infrastructure, perpetuating regional inequalities. This imbalance not only stifles the potential of northern communities but also undermines national cohesion by fostering a sense of neglect and disenfranchisement among residents outside the South.
With greater autonomy, regional parliaments could develop and implement economic policies tailored to the unique needs and opportunities of their regions. This localised approach would drive innovation, attract investment, and create jobs – thereby reducing economic disparities and advancing the government’s levelling up agenda.
By addressing specific regional challenges through a funding mechanism akin to the Barnett Formula used in Scotland, regional parliaments could ensure a more equitable distribution of economic growth across the country. This approach would enable targeted investments in public services and infrastructure in underfunded areas, fostering regional development and enhancing national cohesion by mitigating the sense of neglect and disenfranchisement among residents outside the South.
The limitations of the mayoral system
While metro mayors have facilitated improvements, their limited powers and the concentration of authority in a single individual have revealed significant flaws. The case of Ben Houchen in Teesside has led to governance issues, and exemplifies the potential risks of expanding mayoral authority. Concentrating power in the hands of one person can result in inefficiencies, lack of accountability and governance challenges, ultimately undermining the very goals of devolution.
The solution is proper English devolution
To truly empower local regions and drive balanced economic growth, England should establish regional parliaments. This approach aligns with the governance structures of many successful federal countries such as Canada, Switzerland and Germany, where elected representatives with a deep understanding of their regions manage local matters. Regional parliaments would provide a more democratic and representative form of governance, ensuring that local issues are addressed promptly and effectively by those who know the area best.
Regional parliaments consist of locally elected representatives who are directly accountable to their constituents. This would ensure that the voices of local populations have the opportunity to be heard, and their needs addressed, fostering a stronger connection between the government and the people.
With greater autonomy, regional parliaments could develop and implement economic policies tailored to the unique needs and opportunities of their regions. This localised approach would drive innovation, attract investment and create jobs, significantly improving the local economy.
Regional governance can lead to more efficient and responsive public services. Local authorities would have the flexibility to allocate resources where they are most needed, improving education, healthcare, and infrastructure. A parliamentary system with multiple representatives reduces the risk of corruption and governance failures associated with centralised power. It promotes transparency and accountability, ensuring that public funds are used effectively.
A new vision for Labour
As Labour potentially prepares to take power, adhering to the Conservative blueprint of enhanced mayoral powers is insufficient. Many in the Labour Party, including former MP and prospective candidate for Keighley & Ilkley, John Grogan, are strong supporters of regional governance. Keir Starmer needs to be bold and listen to his more progressive and radical members and MPs. Labour must embrace the next level of devolution by advocating for regional parliaments. This is something Starmer promises in his leadership campaign, so time will tell.
Regional parliaments are the answer
The current state of English devolution is a patchwork of mismatched deals that fail to address the profound economic disparities plaguing the country. While the extension of mayoral powers offers some benefits, it does not go far enough. Establishing regional parliaments would provide a more balanced, democratic, and effective governance model, driving meaningful and sustained economic growth across all regions of England. The time has come to take devolution to the next level, ensuring that no region is left behind and that the entire country can thrive.
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