Question

To ask the Deputy Prime Minister, with reference to paragraph 1.200 of the Autumn Statement 2014, which other city areas have come forward with devolution proposals.

The Government is in discussion with all Local Enterprise Partnerships on a second round of Growth Deals which will see a further £1 billion of the £12 billion Local Growth Fund transferred to local authorities to drive local growth.

In addition, following the Chancellor of the Exchequer’s announcement on the 3 November of a Devolution Deal with Greater Manchester, several places have come forward with proposals to strengthen their governance arrangements in return for further devolution of powers. The Government is committed to further devolution if places are able to demonstrate strong governance and accountability arrangements and a strong delivery track record.