Lib Dems support devolution deal

We have given our wholehearted support to the push for a devolution deal for Warrington. The decision to open negotiations with the Government was endorsed at Full Council on 23^rd September.

The Liberal Democrats have long championed the cause of devolution of power from central to local government. As stated in our 2018 conference motion, Liberal Democrats regret that in England government is highly centralised, with central government having far more power relative to local tiers of government than in almost any comparable democracy. Its attempts to micromanage local decisions and delivery of local services frequently lead to ineffectiveness, waste and a feeling of alienation and disempowerment.

Our vision is for the empowerment of people and communities in England to be based on the principles of decisions being made at the lowest practical level, openness and inclusivity. It is fundamental that a devolution deal is struck to unlock the opportunities for the largest town in Cheshire to support and enrich the lives of its residents by providing better public services, infrastructure, public transport and job opportunities.

Former Council Leader, Cllr Ian Marks added: Our party has supported devolution for longer than the other two. I strongly support a deal with the two Cheshire authorities. Public finances are in a dreadful state and a devolution deal is likely be the best way of securing more funding.

An elected mayor may work for large conurbations like Manchester or Merseyside, but we need convincing it would work for us. Until recently we thought we would have to go down the elected mayor route to get a decent deal, but I take some comfort from a recent interview I heard with the Prime Minister. He wasn’t so adamant and as a pragmatist he said he was open to other options, which I assume includes not having to elect a joint Mayor.

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