Issue - meetings

To note the action taken to develop proposals to seek devolved powers from central government for the wider Hampshire area.

RESOLVED:

That the action taken to date be noted.

The Cabinet discussed the proposals that were being developed for the submission of a bid to the Government for additional powers to be devolved to Hampshire and the Isle of Wight.  The letter which had been sent on behalf of the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Authorities, setting out their Statement of Intent, had been circulated separately as a supplement to the report.  In bidding for additional powers the authorities had to demonstrate how, under the new arrangements, they would be more effective in achieving government priorities on issues such as additional house building and how they would improve the efficiency of the delivery of devolved services, such as transport and economic development.  This would require the establishment of a Combined Authority to operate the additional powers, but which would not act as a new “super authority” that would take over all the functions and structures of the existing authorities in the area.  The current indications were that there was scope for flexibility in the arrangements chosen.  The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Association of Local Authorities already had strong working relationships, with various partnerships operating successfully, and it was important that these were preserved.

The Cabinet noted that it was intended that there should be a full debate on any proposals at the next meeting of the Council.  It was emphasised that this was the early stages of a process, which would become clearer as the process progressed.  Members concurred with the view that the potential of devolved powers should be thoroughly investigated and critically evaluated in order that the Council could take a well informed decision, for the future benefit of the residents of the District.

RESOLVED:

(a)            That the action taken so far to develop proposals for a Combined Authority for the wider Hampshire be noted; and

(b)            That the proposals be subject to further debate at the meeting of the Council on 7 September 2015.