Agenda item

Philip Clifford, Senior Adviser, introduced item three.

Philip outlined the key points addressed in the draft scoping paper: that growth has slowed and that a unified urban voice needed to be re-established. This process would be a two-part approach and at a high level. It was explained that LGA officers had met with representatives from Core Cities and London Councils to discuss the details regarding fiscal devolution, skills and employability, and the ability for local leaders to hold national leaders to account. It was noted that it was well received by officials.

A discussion followed and members made the following comments:

-       With regards to holding national leaders to account, one member noted that it needed to be ensured that this does not lead to fragmentation.

-       One member raised the concern that in terms of the three priorities, they are not of equal importance and that fiscal devolution takes precedent.

-       Many members raised the point that members need to unify their mutual concerns such as lack of funding for population growth.

-       It was established that the Board needs to agree on three mutual topics, so that officers can put together a draft script to review at the next Board.

-       The work programme is positioned towards a spending review predicted to take place late 2019.

Decisions

The following decisions were made:

-       Members agreed on the approach to this work and will identify areas of mutual agreement.

-       Officers to circulate a draft policy script to members.