More turning against 'regions' plans

01/03/2005, Growing Business

The Birmingham Chamber of Commerce (BCC) and Industry have urged the government to re-think the components of its devolution policy following the recent massive vote against regional assemblies in the North East.
Debbie Walsh, head of policy for BCC, said: “The concept of devolution throughout the UK regions is one which we have supported, but not by introducing another tier of government.
“The present plans for regional assemblies are confusing to say the least and if accepted would have piled more red tape on to business and even more tax.”

Launched in 2000 by the Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC), the Devolution and Constitutional Change Programme aimed to explore the series of devolution reforms that have established new political institutions in Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, London and the other English regions since 1997. More than 30 research projects have explored the implications of devolution for the UK state, society and economy.
However, Walsh added: “The 3-1 vote against means the government’s plans lie in tatters, and we would urge them to carefully examine the regional structures and bodies that already exist.
“There is plenty of good practice around that could be harnessed and used to mould current regional governance into a much more efficient and effective system.”