Devo mayors' power charge gains more energy

I was in Cannes for the property festival that is MIPIM. It coincided with the chancellor’s Budget statement and, following Jeremy Hunt’s remarks, there was much celebration on the business stands that had been erected in the South of France, from local government officials and their regional mayors.

Additional powers – and resources – have been awarded to those areas with mayors. And the big game changer for Greater Manchester and the West Midlands is that they will be able to retain 20 per cent of their business rates in future and utilise that money to borrow against.

That is huge, and will undoubtedly be something that Liverpool, Leeds, and other devolved governments will benefit from in the future too. Enterprise Zones, Innovation Zones, and more control of skills, education, and training were other devo-developments that have been warmly received by academic institutions and business leaders alike.

How many years have we been arguing for a more place-based, bespoke approach to the challenges of skills shortages in our regions?

The failure of our local politicians to agree a way forward in terms of its local government arrangements means that the county will get none of the powers, responsibilities, or cash that Manchester, Liverpool and Leeds will be receiving.

It’s time for Lancashire business leaders to demand a change in direction and attitude for our place. If the local councillors won’t initiate progress, maybe it is time for central government intervention?