Starmer Announces Establishment of Council for Nations and Regions
The prime minister has confirmed plans to establish a new Council of the Nations and Regions, including the first ministers of the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, along with elected regional mayors as part of Labour’s ‘devolution revolution.’
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has announced the creation of a new Council of the Nations and Regions, which will involve the first ministers of the three devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, as well as elected regional mayors.
This new body is set to replace the joint ministerial councils that previously brought ministers from Edinburgh, Cardiff, and Belfast together with UK Government ministers.
The purpose of this organization is to facilitate more localized discussions and decision-making on issues affecting the four nations and various regions of the UK, in line with Labour’s commitment to a “devolution revolution.”
Starmer criticized the previous Conservative government for lack of attendance at such meetings, with then Prime Minister Rishi Sunak failing to show up and sending then chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Michael Gove as a substitute instead.
The prime minister revealed that he had discussed his plans with Scottish First Minister John Swinney during a meeting in Edinburgh shortly after Labour’s victory in the general election in July.
During a briefing in Downing Street with Scottish lobby journalists, Starmer reiterated the intention to establish the council. He emphasized the need for a formal setting where Scotland and other regions are properly represented for regular discussions on challenges and opportunities.
‘Reset’ Relationship
Starmer also expressed the desire to “reset the relationship” between the UK government and the pro-independence Scottish administration, highlighting the need for collaboration despite political differences.
Pat McFadden, the new chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, acknowledged the political disparities between the SNP government at Holyrood and the Labour government at Westminster but expressed optimism for a respectful relationship.
Scotland’s Constitution Secretary Angus Robertson welcomed the initiative for a reset in relations between the UK and Scottish governments, emphasizing the readiness of the Scottish Government to work collaboratively with the new UK Government.
Former Tory Prime Minister David Cameron’s proposal for an “English Cabinet of Mayors” was not implemented, and Labour’s proposal for the regional council in its 2024 election manifesto is yet to have its meeting frequency and decision-making powers announced.
‘Hoarded Power’ Over Regions
In a letter to local council leaders, Deputy Prime Minister Angela Rayner called for partnerships between the government and regions without devolved power to enhance devolution across the country.
Rayner criticized Westminster for holding back towns, cities, and villages from achieving their full potential by hoarding power.
The government highlighted Greater Manchester as a successful example of devolution promoting economic benefits outside of London through Metro Mayors.
The Council of Regions and Nations will unite the prime minister, first ministers, deputy first minister, and mayors of combined authorities, with new mayors eligible to join the council.
Labour also pledged to introduce “local growth plans” across the country, where mayors will identify local specialisms and contribute to a national industrial strategy.
PA Media contributed to this report.
