Agenda item

The Chair invited Rebecca Cox, Principal Policy Adviser, to introduce the report.

Rebecca introduced the report which set out the Government’s announcement of a Levelling Up White Paper in place of the previous Devolution (and Local Recovery) White Paper which had implications for LGA’s policy and lobbying activity.

The Chair suggested inviting Neil O’Brien MP or Tom Walker, former lead MHCLG civil servant, to a future meeting of the Board.

Board Members made the following comments:

• It’s important to focus on both councils’ successes and desired outcomes.

• From a London perspective, we must continue to make the case to government that they can’t level up some places whilst levelling down others, particularly not a Capital city.

• One of the big issues that regions will face post-Covid is tackling health inequalities. We need to highlight the good work that we’re doing to improve job outcomes.

• MP’s need to better understand the involvement and role of local authorities.

• It’s important that government’s conclusions are evidence-based with regards to the levelling-up fund, we must continue to push government for greater transparency.

The Chair referred to the movement to a centralised approach and more use of competitive processes. He emphasised the significant need to demonstrate delivery and robustness and ensure that councillors continued to support their communities and residents in the best way possible.

Decision:

• Board Members noted the report.

Action:

• Officers to liaise with Neil O’Brien/Tom Walker’s office with regards to inviting them to attend a future meeting of the Board.