Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask His Majesty's Government whether it will be for new unitary authorities to decide whether to apply for the creation of a Foundation Strategic Authority.

The Government has been clear that it wants to see devolution extended across the whole of England, with more areas benefiting from the powers and funding available to Strategic Authorities.

We have therefore written to leaders of councils in areas without devolution agreements, inviting them to work with neighbouring authorities to agree a suitable geography and submit proposals.

These proposals must meet the criteria set out in the English Devolution White Paper, in particular that they command the support of the proposed constituent councils and support effective delivery for communities. For areas undergoing local government reorganisation, we will continue to work closely with local partners, including any new unitary authorities, on potential future devolution arrangements.