Agenda item

Ian Hughes, Head of Policy, introduced the item, advising members that the report set out LGA work on Brexit. He discussed the structural fund and whether there would be replacement funds (possibly localised) once the UK had left the EU. The skills crisis in Britain and the numbers employed from the EU were also discussed, as was the LGA’s alternative proposal – work local. Local government leaders would be meeting with Dexeu Ministers on a quarterly basis. It was highlighted that Brexit would affect places differently. Ian asked whether there were particular issues in the localities that the LGA could raise with the Government.

In the discussion which followed, members made the following points:

·         A point was made on whether there would be a Government consultation on replacement funds after 2020. It was highlighted that in order to plan council budgets, this would be need to be addressed by 2019.

·         It was felt the opportunities Brexit presented were not currently being addressed.

·         Members asked if there was anything to be learnt from either Iceland or Norway.

Decision

1.    The board noted the report.

Action

1.    Officers to take forward work in line with the comments made by members.