28.06.16
Brexit could provide opportunity for new models of devolution – CCN
The political turmoil following Britain’s historic decision to leave the EU could provide an opportunity to revise existing devolution deals, the County Councils Network (CCN) has said.
In a statement, the CCN said it would work with the LGA to ensure that local government is represented in negotiations with the EU following Friday’s referendum result.
It called on the government to provide clarity on devolution deals, following fears that devolved bodies will lose funding from the EU, but should not pursue unpopular combined authority deals where there is a risk that they would fragment county and district councils.
A CCN spokesperson added: “The changing dynamics in Westminster present an opportunity to put forward alternative models for devolution to county areas.
“Our members have continuously raised concerns over the one-size-fits all approach to elected mayors. There is now a period for this and future governments to reconsider this approach where our members feel this governance model is not appropriate for their areas.”
The referendum result has thrown Westminster politics into chaos, with David Cameron announcing his resignation as prime minister and 172 MPs backing a vote of no confidence in Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn following mass resignations from the Shadow Cabinet.
Alexandra Jones, the CEO of think tank Centre for Cities, has warned that devolution deals could ‘come to a standstill’ as the country deals with the referendum result.
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