Published: Tuesday, 17th December 2024
Councillor Alistair Beales, the Council Leader, has made the following statement about the Government's White Paper on English Devolution.
Councillor Beales said: “Publication of the White Paper ends several weeks of speculation around the Government’s aspirations for devolution and local government organisation in England, allowing informed conversations to begin within the sector and with Government.
“For me, that process starts with considering the Government’s case for change, alongside that for the status quo, and proactively engaging in Norfolk-wide conversations, to ensure the issues, implications and potential opportunities for our communities are fully considered before reaching an informed opinion. Conversations will take time and the case for change needs to be fully developed.
“I want to hear a range of views, because council structures and boundaries can affect how services are delivered. Crucially, our top priority will always be to seek and advocate for the best outcome for the communities we serve in West Norfolk, ensuring local government is the right shape and size to deliver efficient, accountable services.”