29.11.16
WYCA criticises lack of funding and social care plan in Autumn Statement
The government’s commitment to the Northern Powerhouse has been questioned by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority (WYCA) after last week’s Autumn Statement did not contain any specific funding for the region.
The statement promised new borrowing powers for mayoral combined authorities such as the WYCA, but was criticised for giving councils ‘nothing to celebrate’ in terms of funding.
Cllr Keith Wakefield, the WYCA’s transport chair, said he welcomed support for transport projects such as Northern Powerhouse Rail and HS2, both of which will benefit West Yorkshire, in chancellor Philip Hammond’s speech.
But he added: “However, having had the chance to study the chancellor’s plans in more detail, while I can see additional specific spending identified for the North East, North West, Cumbria and the Pennines, but nothing more specific for Yorkshire.
“If Mr Hammond’s government is really committed to a real Northern Powerhouse, we need to see spending across to enable all city-regions including ours, which is the UK's largest economy outside London, to reach their full potential.”
The future of the Northern Powerhouse, a flagship policy of the last government, has been in doubt since Theresa May became prime minister, most recently following the resignation of Lord O’Neill, the Treasury minister responsible.
The WYCA leaders also joined in the criticism of the Autumn Statement for not containing any funding for adult social care, despite growing concerns about the sustainability of the sector.
Cllr Susan Hinchcliffe, leader of Bradford Council, said: “I'm extremely concerned that the chancellor has not even mentioned social care in his Autumn Statement, never mind indicated that they have a plan. I will continue to make the case for government to take part in a mature conversation about how we fund social care.”
Cllr Judith Blake, leaders of Leeds City Council, added that councils such as Leeds would be “left shouldering the burden” without further support for services.
Have you got a story to tell? Would you like to become a PSE columnist? If so, click here.