Minutes:
The Chair invited Eleanor Law (Adviser) to discuss recent activity and introduce the provider who will be taking the work forward.
Eleanor gave a brief overview of the tender process followed since the last meeting, noting that the tender had been won by Cambridge Econometrics. Eleanor then introduced Glenn Athey (Cambridge Economentrics) to discuss the next steps.
In his presentation Glenn raised the following points;
- The main goals of the project are to: understand the impacts of the COVID pandemic, review past policy creation & delivery and set a vision for recovery & renewal.
- Glenn outlined the project timeline up to the publication of the final report expected in March 2021.
- Provided an overview at the rates unemployment and furlough during across the UK during the COVID pandemic based on employment type, sector, age, gender. Added that young people, ethnic minority groups and low skilled workers have been disproportionately affected.
- Explained that the research will consider and report on Urban-Local Trends before, during and after the COVID pandemic, and how such links into more long-term trends being seen globally.
- Will put forward reasoned considerations on making policy fit for post-COVID, assisting recovery and setting a new urban agenda. The City Regions Board will be given a significant consultative role.
- Gave a brief overview of the background, values and mission of Cambridge Econometrics. History of working with the LGA and partner organisations.
In the subsequent discussion the following points were raised by members:
- A question was raised on how the impact of Britain leaving the European Union would be accounted for. Glenn explained that CE have previously done dedicated work on this topic for the Mayor of London, the same modelling and analysis will be applied.
The Chair thanked Glenn for his time and presentation.
Decision
The members of the City Regions Board noted the report.