Agenda item

Bushra Jamil, Adviser, introduced the paper which set out an overview of the six guiding principles to realise economic inclusion in employment and skills, and the key tasks and roles that local government would undertake.

Members made the following comments:

• It was noted that four of the six Economic Inclusion Principles set out within the report stated, ‘Local Government may want to…’ as opposed to ‘Local Government will/shall…’. The need to make the wording stronger and clearer was emphasised.
• A Member highlighted the potential negative impact that data collection could have on local authorities and their represented areas.
• In reference to Principle 2, the importance of access to good quality broadband across the country was emphasised.
• In reference to Principle 3, it was suggested that economic growth be included.
• The need for more research and action into the current lack of transport and connectivity across all areas of the country was highlighted.
• A Member felt that there should be more emphasis within the paper on economic opportunity and opportunities through the Voluntary and Community Sector (VCS).
• The importance of investing in infrastructure and retrofitting for future generations was emphasised.

Decision:

That Members note the report.

Action/s:

• Officers to check legal history to see if the title wording of four of the six Principles could be strengthened and to update the Board.
• Officers to progress collaborative work with the transport policy team to explore a) how transport challenges could be addressed, and b) how the cost of lack of transport connectivity could be quantified.
• Officers to consider bringing a paper to a future meeting of the Board focused on collaboration and partnership working.