Minister 'stands ready' to give Cornwall more 'local empowerment'
The MP for the West Cornwall and Isles of Scilly constituency of St Ives, Andrew George, was encouraged by the Local Government Minister's - Sadiq Khan MP - responses to his call to empower the new Cornwall Council on the eve of the local elections (Wednesday 3rd June).Mr George had secured the one and a half hour debate which commenced at 5.30pm in the Commons Chamber yesterday evening on the subject of Regional and Local Government powers.
Mr George had previously forwarded to Government Ministers, including Mr Khan, a copy of his essay setting out his ambitions for the future of Cornwall and the role of the new Council delivering a stronger environment, better social services and a vibrant local economy.
In response, the Minister acknowledged that Mr George had objected to and voted against the order establishing the new unitary authority but said: "He made the serious point that, not withstanding his objection, he wants to ensure that it is a success, and it is important that that is recognised."
Mr Khan also said: "In the context of the new Unitary Authority…we stand ready to provide continuing support to achieve success…
"The advent of a unitary Cornwall marks a jumping-off point for further local empowerment. I agree that it is important that we look towards the future and fully utilising the powers available to the new Cornwall Council."
Mr George said: "Whoever is elected to run the new Cornwall Council I hope that they will share my ambition to draw down every available power and to argue for more. Cornwall should be deciding for itself how it should run all of its health and social services, how many houses should be built and how local need is met and to develop policy to turn Cornwall into the green peninsula - an exemplar in environmental standards."