English devolution white paper sets plan for simpler local government system

Plans for further devolution in England demonstrate the UK government’s goal of a consistent, simpler system of local government across England capable of delivering an increase in housing, local growth plans and accountability, an expert has said.

William Hall, public policy expert at Pinsent Masons, was commenting on the government’s recently published white paper, “Power and Partnership: Foundations for Growth”. The paper sets out the Labour government’s plans for devolution and local government, aiming to drive economic growth, raise living standards, and enhance local governance through unprecedented devolution of powers and funding.

The paper sets out to standardise and rationalise the patchwork of local government arrangements across the UK, encouraging the replacement of two-tier authority systems with single unitary authorities. The government will facilitate local government reorganisation for two-tier areas, and for unitary councils where there is evidence of failure or where boundaries are hindering ability to deliver. They will invite